Respite

Although there has been some study into the effects of respite on people with Dementia, there is no conclusive evidence as to whether it has positive or adverse effects on the person being cared for due to the small numbers of cases analysed. Obviously, as a carer, you will more than likely suffer some level of stress as a result of your caring duties. For this reason it is important that you use whatever respite is available to you, to help relieve this stress and get a well-earned break from your normal caring duties.

Benefits

Although there have not been many documented, in-depth studies completed, it has been found that in many cases monitored, carers who use respite on a regular basis, typically suffer lower levels of stress or depressive illnesses than those who do not. In addition to this, it has also been found that when respite is used regularly, it delays the point at which the person being cared for has to enter a long-term care arrangement.

Considerations

There are lots of issues to take into consideration when arranging respite. Often people with Dementia will become more agitated or uncomfortable than normal if they are taken out of their everyday home surroundings and steps should be taken to minimise the impact of this whenever possible. Having familiar objects with them may help. Photographs, a favourite blanket, regular activities such as games, or anything that is used by them on a daily basis could help. Also you should consider taking a carer's respite break at the same time as the person you are caring for. It is all too easy to remain in the same daily routine if you remain at home. By taking respite at the same time, you will have no choice other than to relax and recharge your batteries. Many respite centres such as Vitallise offer breaks for carers and people with Dementia so you could even have your break at the same time as the person you are looking after.

Further Information

As mentioned earlier in this section, there has been little research into the effects of respite on people with Dementia, but it is almost certain that it does benefit carers, and so will indirectly benefit the person they are caring for. If you would like to find out more about respite services you should contact your local authority to see what's available in your area, or search for 'respite' on Google.