How Do You Spell Relief? RESPITE

Holidays are a time when families come together to reconnect. Highways and airports are full of cars and planes are filled with luggage and packages transporting people all over the country to visit loved ones. Caregivers are often hesitant to travel to see families because the thought of traveling with a frail elder seems daunting.

We know that caregivers sacrifice. They sacrifice at work—cutting back hours or taking leaves of absences. They sacrifice socially – limiting outside engagements and entertaining. They sacrifice physically—putting their loved ones medical and health needs ahead of their own.

During the holiday season, the burden of care can interfere with the reconnection of families. In my nine years in senior living, I’ve met many caregivers that have not taken one vacation or trip in the years they have been caregiving. One woman had never met her two grandsons that lived in Virginia. A gentleman was unable to visit his brother who was dying of cancer. While these caregivers’ dedication is honorable, it’s sad that they are missing other important milestones in the lives of other family members.

Respite stays can offer a solution for caregivers. The Free Dictionary defines respite as a “usually short period of rest or relief.” I have yet to meet a caregiver that doesn’t deserve a period of rest or relief.

Brooks is honored to be able to offer respite care at Bartram Lakes Assisted Living and THE GREEN HOUSE® Residences. Caregivers can place their loved ones with us for a period of one week up to two months and here is what is provided:

• A furnished studio apartment or bedroom with linens, towels, a TV, phone and other household items
• Three meals per day plus snacks
• Nurses and CNAs on-site 24/7
• Daily activities and programs, including social outings
• Access to all amenities including fitness center, hair salon, library, media center, and grounds
• Laundry and housekeeping services
• Assistance with activities of daily living such as grooming, dressing, showering, toileting, escorts to dining and activities and more
• Clinical oversight and monitoring of vital signs plus assistance with medication reminders, supervision and administration

The beauty of respite is that it provides a break, not only for the caregiver but also for the part-time resident. Our respite guests enjoy meeting new friends, participating in different activities and dining with people of similar ages and backgrounds. It’s not uncommon for our guests to return for future respite stays. In fact, one of our frequent guests looks forward to coming to Bartram Lakes every few months. Her husband likes to travel occasionally with friends. Jane enjoys playing bingo, reading novels and eating with her group of lady friends. This guest refers to Bartram Lakes as “my vacation home while my husband is away.”

Our caregivers truly appreciate respite service. It gives them the opportunity to invest in themselves and other family members. They return rested, relieved and ready to resume their caregiving role.

For more information about respite stays, contact us at www.BartramLakes.org.