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Respite
care can mean the difference between a rested, willing caregiver
at home, or the need for a premature move to a nursing home
because the caregiver is exhausted and unable to carry on.
Home
care help and day care programs give caregivers a break, but
sometimes it's necessary for a caregiver to be away overnight,
or longer. In that case, respite programs can be a big
help. Often a care recipient can stay a few days - or a
few weeks - in a facility. This will allow the caregiver to take
a longer break for a vacation, or just to recoup.
Both
assisted living and nursing facilities that offer respite care
will need to have specific information about your elder,
particularly a complete list of medications and any other
treatment information signed by the doctor. Sometimes
other paperwork from the doctor might be necessary. Many
respite providers ask for evidence of a recent negative TB test.
It's
a very good idea to check out respite alternatives before you
have a crisis, so you'll have the necessary information know the
procedures if you need to look for respite care in a hurry.
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