Respite services have been helpful in providing me with a temporary break from caregiving, while my husband continues to receive care in a safe environment. Using respite services has allowed me to be a better caregiver, because I have time away from home or time to myself in my home. When I return to caregiving, I often feel a sense of relief.
 

• Explore respite options available in and out of the home; clearly communicate your vision and questions.

    “This is what I need to accomplish during this respite time, so if you can provide respite activities that don’t interfere, that would be most helpful.”

• Plan together – with the respite worker, caregiver and care recipient when possible. Discuss roles, boundaries and activity preferences early on.

• If at any time you are uncomfortable, share your concerns and work to find a solution.

    “I would prefer that my husband not go for a walk on this hot day, but maybe an activity in the backyard in the shade would work instead.”

• Consider combining resources to ensure you have the support you need (e.g. transportation, meals, etc.).

• Plan in advance. Give service providers enough time to get resources in place.

• It is hard to ask for help; balance time for errands with time for self-care. Try not to feel guilty for taking some personal time to recharge. It will be worth it over time as you will have more energy for your loved one and for yourself.

• While it may be difficult to enjoy self-care activities during in home respite, remember it’s your home, your space, your privacy, your family and your time. Try to pretend that you are alone.