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What is Respite Care?

Giving Caregivers a Chance to Recharge

A yellow oxygen mask hangs down in front of airplane window

When caregivers and loved ones come into the Resource Center to inquire about respite care, we often tell them it’s a lot like the oxygen mask rule on airplanes: you need to take care of yourself first so you can help others. It’s common to feel guilty or unsure about needing a break. We might feel selfish, think it’s too early, or feel nervous about how our care recipient will feel about it. And while those feelings are valid, the truth is that giving yourself time to rest helps both you and the person you’re caring for. 

What is Respite?

Respite care is short-term, temporary care provided to older adults so that their usual caregivers—often family members—can take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. It can last from a few hours to several weeks and can take place at home, in an adult day care center, or in a residential facility such as a nursing home or assisted living community.

Types of Respite Care

  • In-Home Care: A professional caregiver comes to the care recipient's home to provide supervision and assistance.
  • Adult Day Programs: Older adults go to a program during the day for social activities, meals, and basic needs support.
  • Overnight or short-term residential care: Seniors stay at a nursing home, assisted living facility, or hospice center for a few days or weeks.  

Services Typically Include:

  • Assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, eating)
  • Medication management
  • Companionship and supervision
  • Meals and snacks
  • Social and recreational activities
  • Nursing care (if needed)

To find a provider to help with your respite needs, please see "Respite Provider Resources" in the light blue section below.

Benefits of Caregiver Respite

  1. Avoid Burnout
    Taking care of someone can be incredibly demanding and carries a high risk of burnout. Burnout can manifest in emotional exhaustion, an inability to provide good care, and a sense of helplessness. Respite care gives you the time you need to rest and recharge, so you can come back to caregiving with more energy and a clearer mind. It’s about preventing that "empty battery" feeling before it takes over.
  2. Improve Physical Health 
    Often, we negate the physical effects caregiving has on a caregiver.  Things like poor sleep, lack of exercise, or the physical strain of helping someone move around can take a toll.  By taking time off, caregivers can focus on their own health and reduce the risk of stress-related illnesses.
  3. Enhance Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 
    As a caregiver there might come a time when you feel isolated, anxious, or depressed. Respite care allows caregivers to reconnect with things that help combat those feelings, whether that’s seeing friends, catching up on hobbies, or just having some time to relax. This emotional support is crucial for maintaining mental wellness and overall happiness.
  4. Better the Quality of Care
    A caregiver who’s rested and in a good mental place is much more likely to provide better care. When a caregiver utilizes respite care, they can approach their responsibilities with a renewed sense of patience, empathy, and purpose. This not only helps you feel better, but also ensures that the person you’re caring for gets the best care possible.

Respite care isn't a luxury—it's an important tool for keeping both you and your loved one healthy.

We're here for additional resources.

If you or a loved one have questions about additional resources, please contact our Resource Center: