Respite: A Temporary Break for Families to Refresh
Family caregivers work hard every day to provide the best care possible for their loved ones. However, everyone needs a break from caregiving once in a while. Short-term breaks from responsibilities allow families to continue doing their best. If you are a family caregiver, an important part of being a good caregiver is taking care of yourself. Whether you have a child with a disability or an adult with special needs, using respite to refresh is one way to do this.
Who are Family Caregivers?
“When my son is with a respite provider, my family has a chance to relax and enjoy time with each other. It’s the gift of time and peace of mind to know my son is safe and his needs are met.”
What is Respite?
Respite is the temporary relief from responsibilities of caring for a loved one. It is an important form of family support. Respite allows families to take a break, spend time together, or enjoy time alone.
Why is Respite Important?
Research shows that raising a child with a disability can be very stressful. Families face emotional, financial, social, and physical challengesi.
Respite improves the family’s ability to cope. It can build the strength needed to cope with day-to-day challenges.
Respite is important because it allows families to spend time with friends and with each other. Respite can improve the overall health and well-being of caregivers.
Respite can also help the child or individual to grow and form new relationships with other people outside their family.
Make a Plan for Respite
Once families understand the value of respite care services, many schedule it regularly. This can avoid a crisis or exhaustion. Respite should be helpful and enjoyable for family caregivers and the child.
Learn more about respite using the navigation below:
Respite Home | Types of Respite | How to Pay for Respite | Types of Providers – in Ohio | More Respite Resources | Finding a Respite Provider
iGoudie, Anthony, Havercamp, Susan, Ranbom, Lorin, and Jamieson, Barry (2010) Caring for Children with Disabilities in Ohio: The Impact on Families, A White Paper Prepared with a Grant from the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council.
Questions? Please contact Celia Schloemer, UC UCEDD Family Support Coordinator, at celia.schloemer@cchmc.org or 513-636-4723