Respite care – what is it and when should you use it?

If you, or a loved one, need a short break and some extra care, you may be looking for suitable respite care within aged care. You’ll no doubt have a lot of questions about respite care. Let us share some insight into residential respite with Evergreen Life Care. 

What is respite care?

Respite care, sometimes referred to as residential respite, is a short stay in a residential aged care facility, that gives you a little extra support when you need it. Respite care allows you, your carers or family members, the opportunity to take a short break to recharge or recover. 

When you are enjoying respite care within an aged care facility, everything is taken care of including your meals and accommodation in a comfortable room that you can personalise with some touches from home. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to join in activities and social events, and meet with other residents. 

When’s the right time for respite care?

There are many situations where respite care may be suitable. You may have been unwell, or in hospital recently, and a short stay in respite care allows you to recover fully and get back on your feet. Respite care may also be helpful when your carer is taking a short break. Respite care gives your carer and family the peace of mind knowing you are receiving the support you need, and enjoying a home away from home. And, if you’ve been thinking about moving to an aged care facility permanently, respite care is a great option for a short stay to see if it’s the right option for you. 

How long can I stay at respite care?

The length of stay can vary from as little as 14 days and up to 6 weeks, depending on your requirements. During this time you get to rest and recover with the support of our attentive staff, and enjoy your new surrounds. Family and friends can visit you, and you may even meet some new friends and enjoy activities you might not have tried before. 

What should I look for when choosing respite care?

When searching for suitable respite care options, it’s important to consider a few things before choosing your provider:

1. Location – Is it located somewhere close to home with easy access for family & friends to visit?

2. Comfort – Do you feel comfortable and does it feel like a home away from home? Find out about the activities and meals provided to see if it suits you and your lifestyle

3. Care – Are the staff caring and experienced? Do they understand your needs and care requirements? Make sure to meet with staff beforehand to get to know your care team. 

4. Facilities – If possible, try and take a tour with your carer or family to see the facilities and available rooms to determine if it’s the right place for your respite care.

Respite care at Yallambee Lodge

When you arrive at Yallambee Lodge for respite care, our trained and experienced staff are on-hand to welcome you into one of our comfortable rooms for your stay. We’ll take care of all your needs so you can focus on rest and recovery. You’ll have the opportunity to make new friends and feel at home during your respite stay at Evergreen Life Care. 

Respite care on the beautiful Central Coast

Looking for extra care and respite for yourself or a loved one? To learn more about residential respite care at Yallambee Lodge, please contact our team who can assist with availability and questions. You can also contact Central Coast Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre on 1800 052 222 for more information on respite care.