Respite Care at Calvary Health Care: the benefits of short-term aged care support

When we think of the terms “aged care” or “nursing home”, we typically picture a permanent state of affairs; one that usually involves the very emotional decision to place an elderly loved one who is no longer able to care for themselves into an aged care home.

Whilst increased competition from a myriad of providers has undoubtedly lifted the standards of the local aged care industry in recent decades, many decision makers such as the adult children of elderly Australians still baulk at the thought of removing their mum or dad from the comfort and familiarity of their family home.

For permanent carers of the elderly, this decision can be particularly fraught as their commitment and sense of duty means they often have little or no personal time for themselves. This is where the increasingly popular option of respite care can offer a viable and inviting alternative to permanent residential care or keeping a loved one in their traditional home.

What is respite care?

Also known as “short-term care”, respite care as described by the federal government’s My Aged Care website, is an arrangement within the aged care industry whereby elderly individuals are able to stay in a residential care home for short periods of time, either on a once-off or regular basis. Respite care placements are generally for one or two weeks at a time, but can be longer, depending on the individual’s needs.

Benefits of respite care

Respite stays provide a number of health benefits, both for the resident and their families:

• A change is as good as a rest: a respite stay in one of our aged care homes can offer the welcome change of scenery needed to break routine and provide mental stimulation or relaxation.
• Tackle isolation: the opportunity to socialise with like-minded peers and participate in community activities can help build confidence, strengthen mental alertness and provide an overall sense of wellbeing.
• Benefit to family and carers: placing elderly parents or dependents in an aged care home for a few weeks can allow carers to enjoy a holiday or much needed break from their usual care responsibilities.
• Transition care: whereby an elderly individual who has just been discharged from hospital is placed in short-term residential care so they can receive focused treatment such as physiotherapy and speech therapy as they readjust to regular life.

Respite care at Calvary Health Care

As one of Australia’s largest aged care providers, Calvary Health Care is pleased to offer the option of respite care to the general community through our aged care homes in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland and Tasmania.

Once your loved one is placed in one of our respite care beds, they will enjoy the full range of amenities and services available to our permanent residents including 24 hour care from fully-qualified, registered nurses.

The cost of residential respite care at Calvary Health Care is based on the regular daily fee charged for a permanent bed, although government regulation stipulates this cannot be more than 85% of the single basic aged pension. It’s also worth keeping in mind the Australian federal government does provide subsidies for respite places for families without the financial means to pay for it themselves.

Click here to find out more about Calvary Health Care