A temporary caregiving service, respite care, is intended to give main caregivers a much-needed break from their responsibilities. You can receive this service in the convenience of your own home or in a facility that offers respite care, such as an assisted living complex. One of the primary goals is to provide respite to the family caregiver by enabling them to devote time to attending to their own needs, attending support groups, or simply resting. When the days and nights become a continuous continuum of care for a loved one, respite care becomes a crucial service for other family members who are providing care. In this blog, we investigate the benefits and drawbacks of in-home respite care and compare it to options provided in a facility setting.
What is in-home care?
In-home care is a form of care delivered to a patient in the familiar surroundings of their own home. Individuals who require assistance with daily life activities, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, are the perfect candidates for this. It is also possible for home care to involve medical care, such as the administration of medication and the treatment of wounds. Recruiting home care providers through an agency is possible, or they may come as independent contractors.
| Pros of in-Home Care | Cons of in-Home Care |
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Pros of in-home respite care
Here are the advantages of choosing in-home respite care
- From the convenience of their home, your loved one can receive all the care they require.
- If a member of your family is in the process of being discharged from the hospital, in-home care services allow you to be more time-conscious and hasten the process of reintroducing your loved one to their home environment.
- In-home care is an excellent option for family members who wish to be fully involved in providing care for their loved ones. The family can constantly be informed about all the services being offered. In addition to significantly contributing to administering your family member's medication, you can select the hours or days required for them.
- The client and their family can maintain their freedom, one of the most significant advantages of receiving care in the comfort of their home. They can remain in the comfort of their own home.
- It is not a cause for concern that in-home care may restrict visitors, relatives, friends, and other outsiders. The freedom to have anybody you choose in the house with a family member is yours to exercise.
- Research indicates that in-home care is associated with a quicker recovery, which is something to keep in mind if you consider in-home care as a form of treatment for your loved one. The fact that your family member receives one-on-one care during the entire shift is one of the numerous reasons for this.
- According to the required hours, Caring for a patient in their home may be the most economical choice.
- Generally, the quality of life is higher when you live in your home. Facilities and institutions can bring about a decrease in morale and overall quality of life, which then leads to a decline.
Cons of in-home respite care
Here are the drawbacks of in-home respite care
- The amount of responsibility may result in resentment and strained relationships between the caregiver and the person cared for.
- In many cases, home modifications are required.
- A rise in the likelihood of social isolation, which can lead to worry and sadness and a reduction in cognitive abilities
- However, in addition to providing care, caregivers are often responsible for errands, chores around the house, and other responsibilities.
- Continuous engagement is required to effectively manage caregivers and check the health of your loved one.
Also know: How respite care can benefit caregivers
What is facility-based care?
Facility-based care refers to a specific kind of care service offered to people who need temporary support from their primary caregivers. This type of respite care is often provided in settings such as residential care facilities for the elderly, nursing homes, or rehabilitation institutions specialising in respite care. Providing temporary relief to caregivers who may require a break from their responsibilities about caring is the primary objective of facility-based respite care. This may result from several factors, including personal obligations, travel, or the requirement for rest recovery and relaxation. The period that a caregiver is under NDIS respite care can range from a few hours to many weeks, depending on the caregiver's requirements and the availability of the respite care facility.
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Pros of facility-based care
Here are the benefits of facility-based care
- You will receive professional attention around the clock.
- It is possible to "try before you buy."
- One might take pleasure in the new experience.
- Modifications to the residence or the schedules of caretakers are not required in this situation.
- There is no need for the family to be concerned about the process of hiring, scheduling, and supervising caretakers.
- The family can concentrate on the bond they share with their loved ones rather than the responsibility of providing care.
- Many opportunities for elderly people to interact with other residents are available.
Cons of facility-based care
Here are some of the drawbacks of facility-based care
- Even if it is only for a short period, relocating to a new location can be a stressful experience for certain elderly people, particularly those who have cognitive impairments. One further thing to consider is that moving into a new living arrangement, regardless of how temporary it may be, is a significantly more difficult effort than having caretakers come into the home.
- Regarding schedules and routines, assisted living and other respite homes could offer less flexibility than other facilities. Read more on how to prepare a loved one for a respite care home.
- It's possible that the person you care about won't ever want to leave the place they've called home for so many years.
- Residents may experience discomfort in their new environments, and it may take some time for them to adjust. Depending on the space available, facilities may restrict the amount of privacy that seniors get.
- Prices are subject to change based on the facility and the provided services.
- Patients suffering from certain medical disorders may receive inadequate medical care.
Also know: How long can one stay in respite care?
Conclusion
Deciding on who will provide care for a loved one can be a trying and emotionally taxing experience. A significant factor to consider is that most individuals prefer to age in the comfort of their own homes, where they can continue to enjoy a degree of autonomy and age with the respect and dignity they are entitled to. While there are situations in which residential care is the only option available owing to the worsening of health, there are also situations in which elders can remain in their homes while maintaining their assets, their independence, and their dignity. In many circumstances, this is possible via the collaboration of a home care provider. Care Assure offers both in-home respite care and facility-based respite care services. We recognise that various people have different requirements and preferences, so we provide various solutions to accommodate these variations. And if you are confused about choosing the right one, you can always contact us to direct you to the right path.
Do not miss our exceptional respite care services: it is meant to make you feel comfortable and satisfied
Frequently asked questions
What factors should I consider when choosing between facility-based and in-home respite care?
The individual's preferences, care requirements, and the caregiver's desire for respite are all important considerations. In-home respite care may be the ideal option for individuals who prioritise independence and familiarity. On the other hand, facility-based care may be more suitable for individuals who require more extensive supervision or social engagement.
What are the services home respite care offers?
In-home respite care services can include assistance with daily tasks, medication management, companionship, light housework, and personal care, depending on the needs of the individual receiving the intervention.
What are the services facility-based care offers?
Facility-based care services often include supervision around the clock, support with daily activities, medication administration, social activities, and access to medical professionals. These services are designed to meet a wide variety of requirements.
Does the cost-effectiveness of one option exceed that of the other?
Cost-effectiveness can vary depending on several factors, including the required degree of care, the length of care provided, and the funding sources. In-home respite care may be more cost-effective for shorter durations, but facility-based care may offer bundled services that could be more cost-effective for longer stays.
What are the benefits of selecting in-home respite care through Care Assure for participants and their caregivers?
Participants in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can receive care in their homes' familiar surroundings through in-home respite care. Additionally, caregivers can benefit from a brief rest while having the peace of mind that their loved ones are receiving individualised care.
