One of the most valuable strategies for coping with caring is to have a regular break, often known as ‘respite care’ and to have time for yourself, away from your routine and from Parkinson’s. Even brief breaks are important as they provide an opportunity to recharge your batteries, clear your mind, pursue your own interests and return to your role refreshed and revitalised.
It is of course important though that this time is spent on relaxing or doing things you enjoy, and not just catching up on jobs!
Regular breaks can also benefit the person you care for as they will have someone different to interact with or perhaps different surroundings if they go out of the home.
Respite care can mean a number of things including day care or a few days residential care for the person you look after. It could also simply be someone coming to the house to sit with the person for you whilst you take some time out for yourself.
If you feel that you need respite care, talk with your doctor or social worker and they will be able to put you in touch or refer you to people who provide such services. How this is financed will depend on the country in which you live so you will need to check locally with your doctor or a support organisation such as your Parkinson’s association or a respite/palliative care organisation.
