Unwilling to pause from nurturing duties?
Taking a Break: Overcoming the Hesitation to Use Respite Support Services for Caregivers
Many caregivers shy away from taking breaks, fearing they'll burn out instead. Yet, Regular time-outs are crucial for rejuvenation, exploring new activities, and nurturing other relationships.
Caregiver's Dilemma: 'Nobody Else Can Do What I Do'
You might worry about leaving the person you care for in the hands of others or fear they won't receive the care they need. Remember, close family members are more than capable, and respite providers employ skilled, trained staff who work under stringent regulations and standards.
Public Opinion: 'They Can't Cope Anymore'
Family members or friends might disapprove, questioning your ability to handle the situation. Talk openly about your need for a break with your loved ones and address their concerns, making it clear that respite aid will benefit you and improve the quality of care you provide.
Organizing a Break: 'I Just Don't Have Time'
Perhaps you're unaware of the services available in your area or unsure about how to arrange a break. Your local Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre can assist you in finding respite options and provide guidance on planning and managing emotional issues.
Convincing the Person You Care For
The person you care for may resist being looked after by strangers. This could particularly be the case due to cultural reasons, language barriers, or difficulty adapting to changes. Remember, respite care can offer a refreshing change of environment, meet new people, and the person you care for can benefit too.
Addressing Anxiety
Listen to their concerns and fears but be firm, assertive, and reassuring about the benefits of respite care for both of you.
Overcoming Reluctance
Acknowledge burnout as a legitimate issue, rephrase self-care as a necessity, set realistic boundaries, seek emotional support, and make small, incremental changes to become comfortable with the idea of respite care.
Contact your local Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre on 1800 052 222Contact the Carers NSW Carer Line on 1800 242 636
[Sources: Carers NSW, Klieve, A. M., Giles, K. M., & Thompson, L. M. (2021). Respite strategies for people with dementia living at home: A systematic review. Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy, 17(8), 1646-1657. Kus, S., Van der Meij, A., Scheper, H. W., Rouw, C., & De Jonge, P. (2018). The effectiveness of using social networks and informal support to improve the health and well-being of informal caregivers: A systematic review. BMC Health Services Research, 18(1), 1-12.]
- Embracing respite care can not only help caregivers rejuvenate, explore new activities, and nurture relationships, but it can also benefit the person they care for by offering a refreshing change of environment, meeting new people, and potentially improving their mental and physical health as part of a holistic approach to health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and mental-health support in the workplace-wellness context.
- To overcome anxiety about respite care, it is essential to address the fears and concerns of both the caregiver and the person they care for by acknowledging burnout as a legitimate issue, relying on evidence-based research in science to reassure them about the effectiveness of respite strategies, and setting realistic boundaries that prioritize the well-being of both parties.
- To find respite options and receive guidance on planning, managing emotional issues, and advocating for oneself in the face of disapproval from family members or friends, caregivers can contact the Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre or the Carers NSW Carer Line, where trained professionals can offer assistance and support to ensure a smooth transition towards a more balanced and rejuvenated life for all involved.
