Respite care
Respite care
What is respite care?
Respite care (also known as ‘short-term care’) is a form of support for you and your carer. It gives your carer the opportunity to attend to everyday activities or go on holidays while ensuring your needs are supported. Respite care may be given informally by family, friends or neighbours, or by formal respite services. Things like respite care may mean your carer can continue in caring for you longer.
Respite care may be for a few hours or days or for longer periods, depending on your needs, the needs of the person who cares for you, your eligibility and what services are available in your area. It can happen in your home or at facilities such as an overnight respite cottage, a day centre or residential care facility.