How to tell if you are a ‘recognised’ carer
People often don’t perceive themselves as being a ‘carer’ when they voluntarily support a relative or friend.
- Do you provide daily support to a person without being paid?
- If you did not provide this support, would this person be unable to complete the tasks themselves? (Support may include shopping, paying bills, assisting with showering, making meals, providing transport etc.)
- Is the person unsafe when left alone for long periods of time?
- Has the person been diagnosed with dementia or a severe disability?
- Is the person you support frail or aged (over 65)?
If any of the above applies to you, you are recognised as a carer and are entitled to an array of support for your own health and wellbeing, as well as the health and wellbeing of the person you care for.
Carers need time out to look after themselves and their own needs. This may be going to work, a social engagement, an appointment, a medical procedure, a volunteer commitment, a regular pastime, and so on.
Respite care can reduce social isolation by providing carers with opportunities to meet with friends, attend a support group, or continue activities that are important to them.
Having some respite helps keep carers healthy; improving the quality of care they can provide.
A little respite support can sustain carers so they can continue their caring role, and the person they care for can stay living at home for longer.
Respite also provides carers and the people they care for with an experience of different care facilities that may be required in the future.
Whatever support you require, you can be confident that Resthaven offers caring, high quality services for the person under your care. The support we offer is flexible so that it adapts to your needs. Resthaven’s fully insured and police checked staff are trained and experienced in meeting the needs of older people, including those with memory loss or confusion.
The person can access day or overnight community respite in a variety of settings, either at home or at one of our respite cottages. Residential respite is available at all Resthaven residential aged care homes from a minimum of two weeks up to 63 days each year. Bookings are essential.
Click here to view the current respite vacancies Click here to view and download the About Carer Support Fact Sheet