What is Respite Care?

During the break, alternative care arrangements will be put in place. Respite care enables you to take time for a short break, a day off or even a holiday to ensure that you do not become exhausted and unable to provide effective care.

The type of arrangement you choose will depend on the needs of the person being cared for and the length of break you need to take.

There are a variety of respite care options available including:

• Help from friends and relatives,
• Home visiting services from charities like Age UK,
• Day Care Centres, or
• Short stays in care homes like The Dower House.

If you are planning a holiday, a short stay in a care home may be the best option, affording peace of mind that the appropriate care is being consistently provided whilst you are away.

Different types of residential respite care

With the terms care home and nursing home often being used interchangeably it may be confusing to know what type of residential care you should consider. Whether you choose a care home or nursing home to provide respite care depends on the needs of the person being cared for.

If you care for someone without complex health needs but who may need help with personal care and undertaking social activities, a care home is likely to be suitable. They will benefit from having carers available around the clock care providing the personal care and support that is needed, whilst also having all meals prepared and served. Care homes will usually have regular visits from district nurses but will not have registered nurses on-site as a matter of course.

If you need a home that can provide nursing care around the clock, you need to consider residential nursing homes, such as The Dower House. With registered nursing staff on-site at all times, specialist nursing beds available and a range of specialist equipment to safely assist people with mobility issues, nursing homes are equipped to support people with more complex medical needs.

Paying for respite care

When you book a period of respite care at The Dower House, you will be required to pay a deposit of £700. The weekly fee is £1,465. This includes all nursing and general care.

You may also be charged for optional extras such as newspapers, manicures, hairdressing services and alcoholic beverages. A full list is available here.

If you are in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, you should check the rules regarding taking a break from caring. You can find the information here.

Respite Care at The Dower House

Set in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, The Dower House is set within extensive, well-maintained gardens which all residents are welcome to enjoy.

With dedicated short-stay rooms available to provide respite care, we provide a welcoming, home-from-home experience for your relative or loved one whilst you take a well-earned break. You can relax, with the peace of mind that we are providing superb care in beautiful surroundings.

Short-stay rooms are available for stays from one week and you can find more information here.

If you’d like to book a visit to find out more about respite care at The Dower House and to view the facilities, call 01962 882848 or click the ‘Book a visit’ button at the top of the page.