Q. My husband and I have been planning a two-week vacation with our children. This trip will take us across the country. While I’m looking forward to getting away and unplugging from work, I’m concerned about leaving my elderly father behind. He lives alone, but I’m just down the street from him, so he’s used to me popping in several times throughout the week. My husband cares for his lawn while I take him out to run his errands. I typically bring him dinner a few times a week too. My brother lives a little over two hours away, and while he plans to spend one weekend with our dad, his work schedule isn’t flexible. I’m worried about being away from him for so long, as well as not being able to be reached during some of our vacation. Are there services available for seniors who live alone and need a little help? Can I arrange temporary care without having to sign my dad up for long-term care?
A. How wonderful to hear you are going on an extended vacation with your family! Not only is it well deserved but taking a break from caregiving responsibilities has been proven beneficial to family caregivers. I understand your concern for your elderly father while you are away. It would be awful to spend your entire vacation worrying instead of making memories and enjoying the time with your family. Fortunately, there are a couple of solutions to help you with this dilemma.
The temporary care you are asking about is referred to as respite care. One option is for your dad to receive respite care at a long-term care community, such as a nursing home, that offers such care. While this option works best for someone who needs more help than it sounds like your dad needs, it is one option. I would suggest calling a few nearby senior communities and asking if they offer respite care, what the cost is per day, and if they have any availability for the dates you need. You can also take a tour to learn more about that facility.
Another option that doesn’t involve your dad leaving the comfort of his home is hiring an in-home senior care company to spend time with your dad. Your dad would be paired with a compatible caregiver who would come to his home according to the schedule you arrange. It could be for a couple of hours each day or an entire day a few days a week, depending on your dad’s needs and preferences. An in-home caregiver can help with meal planning and preparation, light housekeeping and laundry, or simply be a companion to keep your dad company while you’re away. They can also give you peace of mind knowing that your dad is receiving quality care. Once you return home, you’re welcome to end in-home care services, or perhaps you decide to continue in-home care on a lesser scale so that you can take a little off your plate. Visiting Angels is proud to offer respite care for seniors so that they do not have to leave the comfort of their own home while their family is away. Getting started with us is easy. Simply give us a call at 847-429-0100 to schedule a meeting.
Have a question for our angel correspondent? You can send our angel an email to apetersen@visitingangels.com, or send your question via mail to Ask An Angel, 65 Woodbury St., South Elgin, IL 60177.
