Understanding Respite Care for Children with Disabilities

Temporary Relief For Family Members and Caregivers

Respite care for children with disabilities offers temporary relief for family members and other caregivers who provide care to children who have chronic illnesses, terminal illnesses or disabilities. This type of care allows a disabled child to remain in a familiar home environment and community instead of moving into a facility.

What Is The Purpose Of Respite Care?

Respite care offers many benefits to family members. Some of these benefits are:

  • The family can enjoy regular daily activities
  • Reduces the amount of isolation family members feel
  • Family members receive much needed rest
  • Learn coping skills
  • Family members remain stable during a crisis
  • Preserving the family unit
  • Disabled children can establish their own identities

Respite care was created to help families. These caretakers often have a difficult time trying to balance the needs of a child with special needs with the needs of other family members. Extended respite care services are essential in reducing a caregiver’s stress levels while maintaining a safe environment for the child.

What Are Respite Care For Children With Disabilities Services?

Respite services are non-medical care. These services can range from a few hours a week to a week or more at one time. The amount of time required will depend on the family’s needs. The services are for children of all ages, and they often serve a specific disability. For example, a child that has a physical disability would need a different type of respite care than a child that has a cognitive disability.

In-Home Respite Care

Most families require respite care in the home. This type of respite care allows the child and the caregivers to be more comfortable because the child does not have to adjust to living in a new environment. Another advantage to in-home respite care is that the home is equipped with any tools or materials the child may need.

Although respite care for children with disabilities is important for family members who are full time caregivers and need to have some time off, it may be difficult for them to find a professional caregiver they trust. However, a reputable home health agency can match your family with a compatible and experienced caregiver.

Evergreen Private Care encompasses an approach that is family oriented. We will personalize respite care services to meet the goals and needs of the child and the family.
Contact us for a free assessment.

Posted in