The importance of respite services

Unpaid carers provide 2.2 billion hours of care across Australia every year.

They help their family member or friend to look after their health and well-being and remain living at home for as long as possible.

So it’s no wonder that the caring role can take its toll on a carer’s mental health and lead to stress and carer burnout.

When carers need a break to rest and recharge, Respite Care can be a great help.

Respite Care with Southern Cross Care can be in a cottage-based setting, out in the community or at home and is always tailored to what will engage each client to improve their health, well-being and ability to do everyday tasks.

This means not only do the carers get an opportunity to boost their well-being, but they know that their loved one is doing the same while they are apart.

The carers of our clients are amazing people and they spend their time while their loved one is at Respite Care in a variety of ways.

Jenny, whose husband Mark visits Myrtle Cottage three times a week, makes sure to get a round of golf in.

“I have always loved it,” she explained. 
“Respite also allows me to enjoy the company of friends with an occasional lunch.”

While Gary, whose wife Barbara visits twice a week, doesn’t have one particular activity but he likes to make the most of the time.

“Sometimes there is shopping, jobs around the house, both regular and “one offs”; and a Probus monthly meeting,” he said.

Karen’s mother Janice visits Willow Fern Cottage and Karen said the service has given her back her own life.

“Having time to myself, shopping, catching up with friends and family. I am now able to work for a few days a week and have a life!”

For more information about how you and your loved one might benefit from this service visit our Respite Care page.