For many families, the holidays are a time to come together and celebrate. But for those caring for those living with dementia, the holidays can be a difficult and stressful time. People with dementia often require around-the-clock care, which can be exhausting for family caregivers. Fortunately, there are short-term respite care options available that can give both seniors and their caregivers a much-needed break.

What is Short-Term Dementia Care (Respite Care)?

Respite care is temporary care that gives primary caregivers a much-needed break. Respite care for those with dementia can be an invaluable resource for family caregivers, providing them with time to rest and recharge while knowing that their loved one is being well cared for. Caring for a person with dementia can be highly demanding. The aim of respite care is to provide some relief for carers and support them in having a break from their caring responsibilities to look after their own health and well-being.

How can Respite Care help caregivers during the holidays?

The holiday season can be especially challenging for families dealing with dementia. While everyone else is out celebrating, caregivers often have to put their plans on hold to provide around-the-clock care for their loved ones. This can lead to caregiver burnout, which can have severe consequences for the person with dementia and their caregiver. Short-term dementia respite care can help ease the stress of holiday caregiver duties by giving families a much-needed break. Whether for a few hours each day or a couple of days each week, short-term dementia respite care can give you the time you need to take care of yourself during the holidays—and all year long.

When considering short-term dementia care, especially over the festive season, it’s natural to have feelings of guilt or wonder if your loved one will adjust. We recently chatted to Alice Bostock, Lifestyle Manager at Livewell Estates, Bryanston, about what impact short-term dementia care has on caregivers and people living with dementia. You can read her advice here.

Short-Term Dementia Respite Care at Livewell Estates

  • A daily activity programme with many activities and exercises to choose from.
  • Support services for people with dementia and their families.
  • Nutritious meals and snacks.
  • Medical and health services, if required.
  • Social interaction and stimulation.
  • The perfect solution for caregivers with daytime commitments.
  • Safe environment with free movement.

The holidays are a special time of year, but they can also be stressful—especially for families dealing with dementia. If you’re struggling to juggle your caregiver duties with your own holiday plans, consider using short-term dementia respite care to give yourself a much-needed break. Respite care will give you peace of mind knowing that your loved one is well cared for while you take some time for yourself this holiday season.

If you would like to find out more details about respite care, please contact our team.