About respite

Types of respite

Every care situation is different. What works for one carer and their family may not work for another.

There are many different types of respite support available. Some common types are listed below.

• In home: a support worker looks after the person you care for in your home
• Facility or residential based: your family member stays for a short period in a care facility like an aged care home or supported accommodation
• Community based: the person you care for joins a day program at an adult day centre, neighbourhood house or community health centre
• Alternative family care: your family and friends may be able to help with your caring responsibilities while you take a break. In some areas there may be organisations who can also arrange for a trained volunteer carer or family to provide regular care, activities and friendship for the person you care for.
• Recreation based: you and your family member can join organised recreation, social or leisure activities either together or separately.
• Equipment to support or ease your role.
• Emergency respite: is available if you need to deal with sudden illness, accidents, family troubles or emergencies.

Contact us to talk about these and other opportunities that suit you best:

Expect feelings of reluctance

Many carers feel uncomfortable about using some types of respite especially for the first time.

You may worry about the person you care for and feel that nobody can look after them as well as you do. Your family member may be anxious or reluctant to be looked after by strangers particularly if they are unable to communicate their needs or find it difficult to cope with change.

It is important to remember that respite is only for a short period of time and that taking regular breaks will help you to keep providing the best care you can. Read our suggestions on feelings of reluctance.

We can help you with emotional support and planning around these issues, making sure that everybody can enjoy the break.

Organising and paying for respite

Not all respite opportunities will be available in your area and some may involve a cost or contribution.

Our staff can help you choose from the options available to you, planning flexible respite that best meets your needs, the needs of your family and of the person you care for.

We are able to help you to organise bookings and may provide financial assistance if required.

You will be made aware of any costs before agreeing that a respite service should proceed.

Freecall 1800 052 222 to be directed to Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre in your area, to find out how we can help.