In Brief
What Is Respite Care? Family Care-Givers Should Find Out
News Brief
This helpful story is about a type of very short-term, institutional care, called respite care.
It enables family care-givers to leave the patient safely in the care of skilled professionals and take a vacation.
Many need a break desperately.
This care is cost-effective, too. Because families are willing to care for someone, that person is not in full-time institutional care.
More respite beds are needed, though. Check out what’s available in your area. Don’t assume it is there without checking to see about availability, cost and whether there is any insurance coverage for which the patient is eligible.
If it is and you use it and it works…then…
Spread the word to people you know who could benefit from it.
Source: New York Times, August 19, 2008
