Have You Considered Respite Care?
Often times parents and guardians of people with special needs put aside their needs or feelings to make sure that their loved ones are happy and safe. As beautiful and joyful watching over family can be, there is no doubt that it can be stressful and exhausting. Many times, parents just need a little me-time to regroup mentally and physically, even if it’s just for a quick minute shopping alone at the store. This is where respite care plays a vital role in the happiness and rejuvenation of families of people with special needs.
Defining Respite Care
Respite care is the short term care of a child or adult with special needs that gives parents or caregivers a bit of relief. Often people are hesitant to leave their loved one behind or they feel somehow guilty for needing a moment to themselves, but a caregiver cannot remain alert, stress-free and positive if they are run ragged. Respite care and services should be seen as a preventative measure, making sure that parents have the opportunity to relieve stress before it begins to affect their health or the health and happiness of the family.
Respite care can take many forms and ranges from a fifteen minute break every once in awhile when a neighbor comes over to allow you to step out, to in-home care by a skilled provider or in-center care by excellent professionals. What works best for your family is based simply on the time you have and the ability to coordinate some time for you.
How Do I Find Respite Care?
To figure out exactly what works best for you as a caregiver, think about the needs of your loved one and the provisions that you have for respite care. You should also consider what resources you have in your community. Are you going to have to make a deal with a neighbor or are there professional services nearby. Autism Speaks has a great directory of respite providers across the United States so you can find the best option for your loved one and your budget.
When looking for respite care from professionals, whether it’s in-home care or in-center, make sure that candidates are qualified and understand your loved one’s needs. Checking references and reviews should be part of your vetting process and any reputable agency should be able to provide you information about how providers are screened and chosen, as well as what services they offer.
A Trusted Respite Provider
Lexington Services is a trusted Arizona respite provider for loved ones with special needs. Our providers are certified and trained in-center to provide the most professional care to individuals with special needs in the home environment to ensure their comfort. Contact Lexington Services today for more information or to enroll in respite services today.
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