What are the Different Types of Respite Care

Respite Care at Home

In-home respite care provides professional care in the comfort of the family home. It’s a popular choice amongst many as it allows people to remain in a familiar environment. All of the necessary support is provided without having to leave home.

It can take the form of:

• Respite Care Visits: Where a carer will visit the home for a set number of hours per day to provide care.
• Live-in Respite Care: Where a carer will temporarily move into the home to provide round-the-clock support.

One of the key benefits of respite care at home is that it’s personalised. Care is tailored to meet specific healthcare needs and provided on a one-to-one basis. There’s also lots of flexibility, with live-in respite care available here, at The Good Care Group, from two to eight weeks.

Staying at home means there’s minimal disruption to daily routines, which is hugely beneficial for people with complex conditions, like dementia. It’s the ideal choice for families who prefer for their loved ones to remain in the place they know best.

Day Care Centres

Day care centres offer a structured environment where individuals can spend a few hours or the entire day. These centres provide a range of activities, offering social interaction, therapeutic services and, in some cases, meals.

Day care is a great option for people who want to maintain their independence. They can benefit from being able to socialise with like-minded seniors and enjoy a structured day.

For caregivers, it allows them to rest and recharge during the day, knowing their loved one is engaged and looked after in a safe environment.

Residential Respite Care

Residential respite care is provided on a short-term basis within a care home or hospice. People receiving care will move into the home on a temporary basis while their loved one takes a break.

This form of respite care offers 24-hour supervision, making it ideal for individuals who require a higher level of care than can be provided at home.

However, while residential respite care provides excellent support, it can be a big adjustment for some people – particularly for people affected by dementia or other cognitive illnesses. The transition may cause stress or anxiety for some.

When compared to in-home options, the costs can also be higher.

Respite Holidays

With a respite holiday, a caregiver can take a break to enjoy a change of scenery. It allows them to rest safe in the knowledge their loved one is receiving all the care and support they’d normally receive. They can then come back refreshed – which is vital for providing care.

Respite holidays can be a wonderful way for both caregivers and care recipients to take some quality time away from their usual routines, helping to relieve stress and improve well-being.

Shared Lives Schemes

Shared Lives schemes match individuals who need care with a family willing to provide temporary care in their own home. This arrangement provides a more personal and homely care environment compared to traditional care homes.

This type of respite care is ideal for individuals with learning disabilities or mental health conditions. It allows them to maintain their independence in the local community, while receiving care and companionship in a warm, family environment.

Emergency Respite Care

Emergency respite care is designed to offer immediate relief in urgent situations – during periods of illness, accidents or unexpected family emergencies. It’s a service that can be provided at home or in a care home, ensuring caregivers can take a break during times of crisis or emergency.

With emergency respite care, caregivers have the peace of mind that support is available when they need it most. It’s a vital option for those who need quick, reliable care when unexpected circumstances arise.

Find out more in ‘A Guide to Emergency Respite Care’.