The holidays are stressful enough on their own, so having a senior loved one to care for only complicates things. Can Mom stay by herself when you do the holiday shopping? Is it safe to have the oven going while Dad’s in the kitchen? Finding time to plan, host and enjoy the holidays while also ensuring that your loved one gets the right care might simply be too much to handle with your schedule. You do need to sleep, after all!
The situation you’re faced with is common, particularly for this day and age. More Baby Boomers are finding themselves taking care of their parents while also having to host a holiday for their children and grandchildren. It’s a stressful situation, to say the least, but more families are finding that respite care is the solution.
What is Respite Care?
Respite care is a short-term break for caregivers. Family Private Care is an agency that offers personal respite care in the home. It’s ideal for families that are taking care of loved ones but need a break to go on vacation or manage other responsibilities. With our agency, there’s no need to transfer your loved one to an assisted living facility. Everything is done in your home so that Mom or Dad is kept comfortable and can join in the holiday celebrations.
How Can Short-Term Care Help During the Holidays?
The holidays are a special time, and you don’t want to rush through them. They only come once a year! Below are some of the things you can do while your loved one is cared for by a caregiver.
- Go grocery shopping
- Purchase and wrap presents
- Decorate the home
- Take family holiday pictures
- Create holiday greeting cards
- Help out at the kids’ holiday parties
- Visit out-of-town relatives
- Attend a holiday show like the Nutcracker
- Go carolling
- Take a trip skiing, snowboarding, sledding, etc.
- Get a massage
Are There Benefits for Your Loved One?
Many caregivers don’t realize that services like respite care is available to them. But others choose not to take advantage of them because they feel guilty. But, respite services are beneficial for seniors, too.
First, it’s not fair to your loved one if you’re frustrated or rushing through things. This can make Mom or Dad feel like a burden. They won’t mind having someone else help if they know it’s making things easier for you. Second, your loved one can take part in your holiday traditions. Let your caregiver know and they will be happy to assist.
Call Family Private Care if you would like to learn more about our respite services for the holidays. We have caregivers that can be easily matched to your needs!
