Respite Care

Relief for Caregiver Stress

Having a family member with a terminal illness can really take an emotional and physical toll on you. The death of a loved one is one of the biggest stressors you will experience in life. Compounding your impending loss are the physical and emotional demands of dealing with the ongoing care your loved one requires.

Many of our patients’ families struggle with grief, stress, anxiety, and exhaustion, as well as feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. All of this can lead to physical ailments, as well, if family caregivers don’t take the time they need for themselves.

At Concord Hospice, we offer a two-pronged approach to relieving caregiver stress. First, we have a network of grief counselors and bereavement support professionals who can identify and help you process the complex psychological and emotional strain of the situation. Second, we can facilitate respite care to give you a much-needed break.

What Is Respite Care?

With respite care, a hospice patient can be temporarily checked-in to a contracted inpatient care facility. This ensures your loved one continues to get the skilled, compassionate care they need, while you get to rest and recharge. Time away from the demands of daily caregiving can work wonders on the mind, body, and spirit of those who are going through the process of losing a terminally ill loved one. Meanwhile, your loved one is kept comfortable and cared-for, according to their specific wishes.

Respite care is meant to be an occasional service, to be used as needed – for up to 5 days at a time.

When You May Need Respite Care

You may want to consider respite care if you are:

• Depressed
• Drinking too much
• Not eating
• Frequently ill
• Physically or emotionally exhausted
• Unable to sleep