One of the most anticipated traditions of the holiday season is pulling out those favorite, time-honored recipes, lovingly prepared the same way for generations and presented only during this festive time of the year. One recipe you’ll want to avoid, however, is the recipe for stress overload that can result from trying to do it all – and this is especially true for the 34 million family caregivers whose lives are dedicated to caring for a senior family member.
The holiday season, with all of its joy and festivity, is also well known in the caregiving industry as a time that many family caregivers begin to feel overwhelmed. However, with a little advance planning, the holidays can once again feel merry and bright! The answer lies in professional New Hampshire respite care, which provides temporary relief for primary caregivers, allowing for periods of rest and relaxation, to run errands or accomplish other needed tasks, or to take a much needed vacation break.
These tips can also help:
- Think ahead. If you’re planning some extended time away, be sure to begin the process of seeking respite care well in advance, to allow for a smoother transition for your loved one. Starting small, with a few hours a couple times a week, can allow the senior to become familiar and comfortable with his or her respite caregiver before a longer separation from you.
- Write it down. Any concerns or particular likes/dislikes should be recorded in a notebook, along with a list of all medications taken, any allergies, food preferences, favorite activities, and perhaps even a brief description of highlights from the senior’s life that the respite caregiver can use to get to know the senior.
- Prepare for emergencies. In addition to the details listed above, provide a separate list, posted in a highly visible location, of physicians’ contact information, along with who to contact in an emergency (including back-up emergency contacts). You may also want to make arrangements with the respite caregiver to check in at certain scheduled times, if desired.
Live Free Home Health Care is pleased to offer professional, our dependable New Hampshire respite caregivers who are employed and fully trained, bonded, insured, and screened, ensuring your senior loved one’s safety and wellbeing. Give the gift of respite care to yourself or someone you love who could use some rest and relaxation this holiday season! Call us any time at 603-217-0149 to learn more!