Short Breaks for Older People
Short breaks (traditionally termed ‘respite care’) are of crucial importance to both carer and the cared-for person. For the carer they provide a break from caring responsibilities and an opportunity to catch up on other tasks or simply to recharge. For the cared-for person they are also a positive experience and an opportunity to enjoy a different environment or activity.
The most appropriate type and length of break varies according to the particular needs of both carer and cared-for person but can include
These services are provided to ensure that the carer has a break from their care responsibilities and will take place at home.
- Day Care for the cared-for person
Day care services are located throughout the city. There is also day care for people with dementia.
- Day Opportunities for the cared-for person
The services, purchased or provided, consists of a range of day opportunities designed to promote ordinary living through developing and maintaining links with existing community services.
Short breaks can be arranged in care homes where the level of care required by the cared-for person cannot be met through community based supports.
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Social work services have commissioned a family placement service for frail older people. The service will offer short breaks within the home of specially recruited Adult Placement Carers. The service user will be cared for on a one to one basis and will be supported to maintain their normal routine.
The service provider will match the needs, interests and lifestyle of service users to an appropriate carer.
The Adult Placement Carer will provide varying levels of assistance while the service user is resident within their home, including:
- getting in and out of bed
- maintaining personal appearance
- going to the toilet and management of continence
- dressing and undressing
- prompting with medication
- pursuit of religious and cultural issues
- maintenance of social interests
The service is not appropriate for older people who
- have mental health needs such as dementia, where their sleep pattern and level of confusion is of such a severe nature that the household within the Adult Placement Carer’s home would be disrupted
- may display challenging behaviour of a physical nature and/or verbal nature
- have a physical condition of such severity that nursing care is required
How do I access the services?
You will require an assessment in order to access short breaks. This is normally arranged through your local area service team. For information on how to contact your local area service office see How to access services.
What other support is available to carers?
If you are caring for someone, you can ask us to assess your needs. The assessment will look at how best we can support you in your role as a carer.
Support is also available through the carers centres and projects.
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