Guest Column by Katie Davis

As an informal caregiver, your schedule often revolves around the person you are caring for. But what happens if you need to travel for work or you simply want a weekend off?

Respite care services offer around-the-clock assistance during a short-term stay, which typically lasts more than 24 hours, but less than two weeks.

Caregivers often turn to respite care if they’re unable, for a short time, to provide the 24-hour supervision their loved one requires. Respite stays are also sometimes used as trial runs before making the decision to move to a care center full time. Respite care usually includes all the same services available to long-term residents at that location, such as 24-hour care, meals, social activities and housekeeping.

In most cases, entering into respite care requires the same paperwork as is required for admission to a skilled nursing center, including lists of medications, medical records and more. You’ll determine how long the individual will remain in respite care and complete payment paperwork upon admission. This process is the same whether it’s an overnight stay, a weekend or longer.

Respite care can be provided by home care agencies, skilled nursing facilities or various senior communities. Some locations offer adult day care service programs that provide half-day and whole-day care, which includes meals and group social activities.

The cost will depend on the level of care and length of time needed. Some insurance plans will pay for respite care. If the person has a life-threatening illness and qualifies for the Medicare hospice benefit, Medicare will cover up to a certain amount.

If you would like additional information on respite care services, please contact Senior Resources of Freeborn County at 507-377-7433.

Katie Davis is executive director of Good Samaritan Society of Albert Lea.