Respite care is short-term, temporary care provided to individuals with health needs, giving their regular caregivers a break to rest, recharge, or attend to personal matters.
Tips & Links
People living with chronic health conditions, cancer, mental illness or cognitive disabilities requiring physical care 24/7 often rely on family caregivers for their care and support. Respite care services can give family caregivers short term/temporary relief from the emotional and physical demands of caring for a friend or family member.
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- Respite care services can be paid for privately or may be subsidized by the health authority depending on your needs and financial situation.
- Inquire about getting publicly-funded respite care availability in your home or in a care facility. The referral can be made by yourself, a physician, nurse practitioner, or a family member to your health authority as outlined by the Government of BC.
- Assisted living and residential care facilities sometimes offer respite or short-term stays if:
- you have recently been discharged from an acute care hospital.
- you require care to prevent or reduce the need for hospital or emergency department services or admission to a long-term care home.
- you have a life-limiting illness.
- You need hospice care or end-of-life care.
Things You Can Do
- Understand that a respite stay can be for a few weeks to a few months. Daily respite care can also be found in the form of adult day programs.
- Know that respite can also be offered by care partners who have the skills and knowledge to provide the care required.
- Set up a successful respite ensuring medications, a personal care plan, emergency contacts, and daily records are ravailable and reviewed with the incoming caregiver.
- Review the list of tips to reduce the stress of being a family caregiver from Healthlink BC.
- Review the Family-Caregivers of BC website for ways for family caregivers to find support as well as family caregiver support groups.
- Be aware that family caregiving can be very stressful. Know that there is a BC Caregiver Support Line toll-free at 1-877-520-3267.