Importance of Respite Care

It is imperative for caregivers, employed and financially compensated, to take respite care.  Even if it is just 2 to 4 hours a week, this time away from the care giving responsibilities can be a tremendous asset in fighting caregiver fatigue and depression.  For those with loved ones at home with issues such as dementia, this respite time can be crucial, even if all it is utilized for is to be able to sleep for several solid hours in a week.  Caregivers often suffer from severe sleep deprivation and will decline quickly in their own health if their own needs cannot be met.  So much time and energy is consumed by care giving, that many caregivers begin to see a marked decline in their own health occur from the stress involved with the job.  Some common medical problems that begin to arise are: weight gain, especially fat in the front belly, or as some term it, the "deep apple fat."  This is a dangerous form of weight gain in that it indicates a higher tendency towards heart disease and diabetes.  This type of weight gain occurs because of the increase in stress hormones in the body and how the body gets signals to store fat.  Sleep deprivation is another serious medical problem that may arise for a care giver.  If you have a loved one with dementia or that is a serious fall risk, you find yourself bolting up in the night and listening for every little sound.  This lack of deep sleep can be very detrimental to mental functioning and outlook.  High blood pressure is always a concern, as is diabetes, depression, anxiety, and bowel problems.  Even if the only respite one can get is to soak in a relaxing tub with a favorite scented bubble bath from +Bath and Body Works, the rejuvenation time can work wonders. Caregiver and compassion fatigue is not an issue to dismiss or take lightly.