A Look at Respite Care in Atlanta for Mom and Dad
When you’re caring for a loved one, there’s a good chance you may get emotionally taxed or drained. After all, a lot falls on your shoulders as the primary elderly caregiver, responsible for giving baths, changing sheets, feeding and much more. Studies show that between 40 and 70 percent of caregivers experience depression while taking care of a loved one and that 23 percent of caregivers experience a decline in their own health while focusing on another person’s care.
If you want to ensure that you are healthy as an elderly caregiver, it’s important that you give yourself breaks from time to time. That way, you can de-stress and rejuvenate to feel refreshed and ready when it is time to return to your loved one.
In order to take a break as an elderly caregiver, consider hiring a respite caregiver. A respite caregiver is a temporary caregiver who can step in while you’re taking a break and is also trained to care for those who are older or ailing.
Here are some tips for hiring someone who can handle respite care for the elderly so that you can ensure your loved one is well cared for — and that you’re taken care of, as well.
Create an Atlanta Respite Care Plan
First, create a plan for your break so that you know how long you’ll be gone and what both you and your loved one will need while you are. Do they simply need someone to check on their safety? Or will they need someone who has special skills that are suited to their condition? Make a plan and ensure the care of your elderly loved one if coordinated before taking time away.
Contact Caregivers about Respite Services
Once you know what is needed, reach out to potential respite caregivers. These may be people in your family or close circle, or they may be caregivers from an agency trained in respite care for the elderly.
Explain What Elder Care Is Needed
To the respite caregiver whom you hire, explain what is needed while you are gone. Go over, in detail, how to care for the loved one — including what they will need physically and emotionally. Make sure that the respite caregiver is prepared to provide all that is needed.
Then, speak to your loved one. Explain that you’ll be taking a break and inform him or her who will be taking your place. You may want to arrange a meeting in advance to ensure everyone is comfortable.
Take a Break
Once the caregiver has been arranged, take your break as planned. Leave phone numbers of doctors and emergency services in case of an emergency and also leave your contact information should any issues arise. That way, you can enjoy your break, assured that all is taken care of.
Wrapping up: Respite Care in Georgia
Looking into respite care agencies in Atlanta can be a great way to give yourself much needed time off from the stresses caring for a loved one can bring. When hiring a respite caregiver make sure they are vetted and certified to provide the highest level of care and protection for your loved one while you away.
Angel Companions Senior Care delivers respite care services to all 27 metro Atlanta counties including the cities of Kennesaw, Stockbridge, Woodstock, Johns Creek, Marietta & more. If you have any questions please use our contact page form or call us today at 770-579-5000!