Caring For The Caregivers During The Holidays

Is there a special someone in your life who cares for a chronically ill or elderly person? A caregiver’s services are oftentimes highly rewarding yet emotionally and physically draining as well. A respite gift certificate is a perfect way to give a full-time caretaker a break from his or her demanding responsibilities and show that you care. Whether it’s for a few hours a week to stay balanced and run errands or enough time to enjoy a rejuvenating vacation, respite gives caretakers peace of mind by knowing that their special needs loved-one is being safely cared for by a professional.





Types of respite care and services

Respite care can be provided both at home for short-term relief or at a residential facility where a loved-one can stay overnight or longer. There are also adult daycare centers where a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia can socialize in a safe environment. Oftentimes transportation and meals are provided for at the daycare centers, and the trained staff will supervise your loved-ones through structured activities such as music and art programs.

Aside from companionship and professional health care, in-home respite includes many other benefits such as help with laundry, shopping and meals as well as assistance with toileting, dressing and bathing. Trained professionals can also assist with medications and other specialized services.

Overnight care in a residential facility is an ideal solution for caregivers who wish to take a vacation or extended break. Here their loved one can be supervised by a trained staff in a safe environment. Unfortunately, these services are rarely covered by insurance or Medicare. There are, however, available funding sources such as veteran’s benefits, non-profit organizations, and state agencies that can help ease the burden of paying for respite care.

Respite gift certificate options

Gift certificates during non-holiday times can be purchased for as little as two hours at a cost of only $39.00. During the holidays of New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, that same two hour gift certificate would cost $58.50.

For a complete list of options and further assistance, please contact our friendly staff at Visiting Angels. Give a caretaker the gift of time this holiday season and let someone in your life know that you truly care.