Respite is planned time away from caring. It can be a few hours, a day, an overnight, a week. It can happen at home or in a centre. The point is that the carer gets a break and the person is safe.
The types
- In-home respite. A carer comes to the house. The person stays in their own routine. Least disruptive.
- Centre-based respite. A day program or social group. Good for company and stimulation.
- Overnight respite. A sleepover or an awake night shift, so the carer can sleep.
- Residential respite. A short stay in an aged care home. Useful for a longer break or a trial of residential care.
- Emergency respite. When something happens and you need cover quickly.
How to arrange it
If the person has an aged care package, ask the provider what respite is included and what it costs. If they are an NDIS participant, ask the plan manager whether respite is funded. If neither, private respite is available at an hourly rate.
Carer Gateway can help with emergency and planned respite, and can tell you what is available in your area.
Making the first break work
Start small. Two hours, same time each week, with the same carer. Routine makes it easier for the person to accept and easier for you to relax.
Write the handover: routine, medication, meals, access, emergency contacts, and what calms the person. Put it on the fridge.
Tell the person who is coming and why. Frame it as company or practical help, not as being looked after.
What carers do with the break
Sleep. See a friend. Go to an appointment. Sit in a park and do nothing. All of those count. The break does not have to be productive.
Some carers feel guilty the first time. That usually fades after the second or third break, when they see the person was fine.
Book the next one before you finish this one
A one-off break is a treat. A recurring break is a support. Put the next date in the calendar before the first one ends.
If the person refuses
Try a shorter visit, a familiar carer, or a task rather than personal care. A centre-based program can be easier to accept than a stranger in the house, because it is an outing.
If refusal is consistent and you are exhausted, talk to the GP or a social worker. There may be more options than you think.
What respite is not
It is not a sign that you are failing. It is not permanent. It is not a judgement about how much you love the person. It is a scheduled break that keeps the arrangement going.
Common questions
How much respite can I get?
It depends on the funding program and your assessment. Ask My Aged Care, your NDIS plan manager, or Carer Gateway.
Is respite free?
Sometimes it is subsidised. Residential respite usually involves a fee. Ask before you book.
Can I get emergency respite?
Yes. Carer Gateway can help arrange it. Call 1800 422 737.
Will the person be upset?
Possibly at first. Starting small, with a familiar carer and a clear routine, makes it easier.
Can I use respite to go on holiday?
Yes, if the funding allows. Plan it well ahead and confirm the arrangement in writing.
Sources and further reading
This guide is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. If you are worried about your health, call your GP. In an emergency, call 000.