Understanding Respite Care in Assisted Living

One of the most vital components of elder care is often overlooked. Respite care is integral to supporting elders who wish to age at home, and it often helps these individuals recover after surgery or other medical complications. Respite care provides short-term assistance in an assisted living community where specialized care is available. These types of communities cater to people looking for both long-term and shorter stays. There are two main types of short-term stays, or respite care, that are most common in assisted living. The first is using assisted living communities as a bridge before returning home after a hospital stay. The second is short-term break for caregivers taking care of family members.
Reduce Hospital Readmissions
A 2010 study done by the National Health Care for the Homeless Council reviewed patients (who were at the time homeless) in Los Angeles, Portland and Cincinnati. The researchers looked at the percentage of hospital readmissions for patients who were released from care against those who were admitted to respite communities temporarily. In the study, those admitted to respite care had 50 percent fewer hospital readmissions in the next 90 days. This medical respite care provided recuperative assistance that these homeless individuals would not have had access to on their own. By providing this type of assistance, each city saved significant funds that would have otherwise been paid in hospital fees for readmissions.
Similar medical respite care can be utilized for elders who have surgery or medical procedures and wish to live alone.
Care for the Family Caregivers
Respite care can also be important for those individuals caring for ill or older loved ones. Caregivers often experience fatigue and illness due to the physical and mental stress that accompanies their position.
Caregivers are sometimes reluctant to receive assistance or support in their caregiving duties because they feel an overwhelming sense of responsibility for their patients. Fortunately, respite care can offer a break from the trying demands of a caregiving position. Qualified medical professionals can even help care for ill caregivers during their time of need, so they can get back to health faster.
There are other types of respite care, including in-home services, that are designed to assist caregivers when they need some time off. A few examples include:

• Housekeeping
• Meal preparation
• Assistance with shopping (such as grocery shopping)

It is also common for the primary caregiver to arrange for someone to fill in while they are away; this person is generally in charge of providing companionship for the ailing family member. Allowing other people to help out can allow caregivers to take some time off for rest and recuperation.
Focus on Health
The main benefit of respite care – across the board – is that it enables the individual to put his or her energies into staying as healthy as possible. There are various ways to pay for respite care. Visit Seniorly to learn more about respite care in Walnut Creek or assisted living in Walnut Creek.