Respite Care for Caregivers

Taking care of a loved one with cancer is hard work for a caregiver. Unfortunately, taking care of themselves may take a backseat leading to missed health screenings, high stress levels and lack of sleep.

Respite care gives caregivers a chance to take a short break, which can help lessen fatigue, boost energy and give a renewed sense of dedication to themselves and their family. Respite care can include a friend or a home health care professional taking over for the afternoon to allow you some time to relax or even a weekend away with other caregivers to exchange ideas.

Here are a few resources to help caregivers learn more about respite care:

Family Caregiver Alliance

caregiver.org

Offers information, advice and a navigator to help find resources and services in your area, as well as discussion groups.

Family Caregiving 101

familycaregiving101.org

A joint program by The National Family Caregivers Association and the National Alliance for Caregiving, the site is designed to provide caregivers with the basic tools, skills, and information they need to protect their own physical and mental health while they provide high quality care for their loved one.

HelpGuide.org helpguide.org/elder/respite_care.htm Finding and choosing respite care services and providers

National Alliance for Caregiving

caregiving.org

Dedicated to providing support to family caregivers and the professionals who help them and to increasing public awareness of issues facing family caregivers.

National Family Caregivers Association thefamilycaregiver.org

The National Family Caregivers Association educates, supports, empowers and speaks up for those who care for loved ones with a chronic illness or disability or the frailties of old age.

Well Spouse Association

wellspouse.org

A national organization focusing exclusively on the needs of those caring for a chronically ill and/or disabled husband, wife, or partner. Offers support groups, forums and other resources.

Young Cancer Spouses

youngcancerspouses.com

Brings together young spouses of adults with cancer to share information, support and experiences.