Caregivers for elderly loved ones can easily become burned out and exhausted. Oftentimes, they’re responsible for their loved one and their own children, as well as maintaining a household and a job. As a Baton Rouge elder law attorney, I believe that respite care and adult day care are two great options to give caregivers a break, even if it’s just for a little while. The chance to relax, refresh, and recharge will allow them to provide the best care possible for their loved ones. Here’s a closer look at respite care and adult day care and the main differences between the two:
Respite Care
Respite care is given by family members, trusted friends, or professional caregivers and may provide a change of pace for both the caregiver and the senior. The caregiver can attend to other responsibilities or even just take a little while to relax, while the senior gets to see fresh faces. Respite care usually happens in the home, though churches and senior centers also offer respite care. These services include companionship, personal care, meal preparation, and assistance with medication. If you don’t have family members or friends who can provide respite care, you should be able to find an agency that refers respite caregivers. Be sure to do your research and make sure the agency is licensed, insured, and has good reviews when hiring an outside respite caregiver.
Adult Day Care
Adult day care facilities are organized programs and provide more care options for seniors than typical respite care. Adult day care centers are great places for seniors to socialize and participate in activities. Meals, personal care, and medication assistance are also likely to be provided. Keep in mind that adult day care facilities are very different from nursing homes. They offer little to no medical services to seniors, even if they are associated with a hospital or other medical care facility. Again, it’s a wise idea to research adult day care centers in your area to make sure they have a good reputation and offer the kind of services needed for your elderly loved one. You may also want to ask a Baton Rouge elder law attorney if there are any financial assistance programs available, as adult day care facilities can be pricey.
If you have questions about respite care or adult day care facilities for your elderly parents or family members, please contact us at (225) 744-0027 to set up a consultation.
