As a family carer, it’s just as important that you look after yourself as well as looking after your loved one or relative. Caring full time is a big responsibility, and your health and wellbeing need to be taken into consideration. Staying healthy and making time for yourself around your caring duties is essential, so you can continue caring for as long as possible.
Respite support is available for the times when family carers need a well-deserved break. A carer may need some time off to look after their own health, or take a holiday for some rest and relaxation. In many cases however, carers can feel guilty about asking somebody else to step in, or leaving the person they care for.
Here are some reasons why choosing respite support can have advantages for both the carer and the person receiving care. Everybody needs a break from time to time, and in the long run you’ll become a better carer for it.
Relax and recharge
Being a carer can be very physically and mentally demanding, so your body needs to rest. There are various ways to relax and recharge the batteries, whether it’s lying on a beach in an exotic destination or spending time at home with friends and family. It’s important to give yourself a rest from the responsibilities of caring, however you choose, in order to have the energy to keep going.
Be social
If you are a live-in family carer, it can be difficult to get out and about and do the activities which contribute to your wellbeing. It’s important to have a life outside of your life as a carer yet doing simple things like going for dinner with a friend, taking part in an exercise class or looking after grandchildren can be difficult. Take some time off to socialise with people other than the person you care for, and look after your own needs. After all, you can’t look after another’s needs if your own physical and social needs aren’t taken care of.
Reduces tension
When two people have little interaction with others, tension can build up. A carer can feel frustrated or undervalued, and the person who requires care may feel like they are trapped or not fully supported. If you have the same carer for a long period of time, it can be a welcome decision to have somebody new to talk to. A little time apart can do wonders for any relationship, and when the respite is over you will both feel more at ease.
Everybody needs regular rests to perform at their best. Novus Care can provide you with outstanding respite support, and in some cases you may be able to receive financial help towards it.
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