It’s just a fact that everyone needs a break sometimes. This is especially true when caring for a loved one who is ill, elderly, or disabled. It’s not always easy, and sometimes caregivers may have other obligations or affairs to handle that will keep them away for extended periods.
This is where respite care comes in. It offers primary caregivers a short-term break by allowing trained professionals to step in on their behalf while they’re away. For more information on solutions for caregivers, you can visit Seasons Retirement Communities at their website: https://seasonsretirement.com/respite-care-the-short-term-solution-for-caregivers/.
For now, let’s take a minute to talk about what respite care is, why it’s important, and how to access it in Ontario and Alberta.
Table of Contents
What Is Respite Care?
Respite care provides that much-needed temporary rest for caregivers, giving them a temporary break from responsibilities for a few hours, a day, a week, or even longer.
Caregivers can feel confident about this decision because a trained professional comes in and takes over the caregiving duties.
Types Of Respite Care
There are many types of respite care. Caregivers and loved ones can rest easy knowing there is a great option out there for everyone’s individual needs and preferences.
There are three main types of respite care that the person the caregiver looks after can take advantage of.
- At-home respite care
- At a long-term care home
- At an adult day program
Now let’s discuss how to apply for each in Ontario and Alberta.
Respite care in Ontario
Let’s look at what respite care is in Ontario, how to qualify, and the costs.
At-Home Respite Care
At-home respite care is when a professional comes to the home and provides care for a loved one.
Depending on the needs of the individual, this could require the services of a variety of care needs, be they personal support, homemaking, or professional healthcare. Home respite care can connect you with a personal care worker or health care professional as needed.
At-home respite care is also an excellent option for older adults who prefer to live independently, offering them a way to get access to care services on an as-needed basis. Before caregivers take their break, they’ll have a chance to sit down with the professional and create a care plan that works for the person being cared for.
How to Qualify
Qualifying for at-home respite care is easy. The recipient needs an OHIP card and a home with the required equipment. There may be other specific qualifications based on the situation.
Also, the recipient must have secured personal support services before the caregiver leaves. To get access to this program, the caregiver should get in touch with their local Home and Community Care Support Services organization. You can call 310-2222 in Ontario for access.
Fees
Some individuals may be eligible for free services under their local Home and Community Care Support Services organization, funded by the government of Ontario.
Private organizations are also an option, but their fees and programs will vary from location to location and must be researched individually.
At A Long-Term Care Home
Staying at a long-term care home is an excellent option for caregivers who need a more extended break and whose care typically doesn’t occur at home.
This is also an excellent option for someone with complex needs because long-term care homes already have the necessary tools and staff to carry out the care plan.
Stays are limited to 60 or 90 days in a full calendar year.
At A Retirement Community
Respite care is offered at several retirement communities and residences across Ontario and Alberta, as these locations provide several unique services and benefits that you may not be able to receive elsewhere.
Some retirement communities offer detailed, affordable respite care plans that can accommodate any length of stay and often consider the unique needs of the older adult in question.
This can be a better option for those requiring stay durations not supported by short-term or long-term care homes.
How to Qualify
The conditions and requirements to qualify for respite care at a retirement community will vary depending on the individual provider. It’s best to contact your local retirement community to check and see if they have a respite care program available. They will be happy to provide you with information on what is included within their services.
Fees
Just like the qualification criteria, the fees and costs for respite care at retirement communities can vary from location to location. Speaking with your local retirement community is the best way to get accurate estimates on their fees and what they cover.
At An Adult Day Program
Adult day programs provide care for a loved one during the day. This type of respite care is ideal for caregivers who work during the day and need someone to look after their loved ones while away.
How to Qualify
To be eligible, the caregiver must seek a referral from their local Home and Community Care Support Services organization. Depending on the organization, there may be additional requirements.
Fees
The Ontario government funds all public adult day programs.
Respite Care In Alberta
In Alberta, a Home Care Case Manager must approve respite care.
Caregivers and their loved ones may be eligible to receive publicly funded services from nurses, occupational therapists, physicians, or health care aides.
How to Qualify
The requirements to qualify are different based on individual providers. Alberta Health Services offers a list of service locations to help find a respite care provider in your local area.
Fees
Specific locations determine costs. Some older people may be eligible to submit receipts to the Alberta Seniors Benefits program.
Why Respite Care Is So Important
Caring for a loved one can be a full-time job. So, it is natural that caregivers can become physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausted. Respite care is essential because it allows caregivers to take a break and recharge their batteries.
The break is perfect for helping caregivers avoid burnout, reduce stress, and improve their overall health and well-being.
Also, respite care can help improve the quality of care provided by giving the caregiver—everyone needs a little time and rest to feel refreshed and energized.
Takeaway
In conclusion, respite care is an important program to give caregivers the break they deserve. With different available programs, there is a service out there to fit the needs of the caregivers and the older adult being cared for.