“For those of us caring for a family member, the holidays can be difficult. Meal planning, shopping and arranging festivities are added to our daily tasks. Respite care provides much needed support when we are busy with all of the holiday planning. Phil Chandler, President of Right at Home of Ventura County, tells the interesting tale of a local family. Linda is 84 years young and lives with her daughter, Debbie, and her family. Debbie alternates holiday hosting with her sisters and it is her turn this year. During most of the year, Debbie helps her mom out of bed and prepares her meals for her, but now she needs some time to plan and shop for the large group she will be hosting. Debbie knew she would have to hire a caregiver to assist in providing respite care so Debbie could carry out her holiday tasks. During the holidays, aging family members can feel the stress of all the preparations and may feel depressed because of their inability to help; however, if they are able to assist, ask them to perform tasks that are within their means so they feel included.
It would be beneficial to everyone in the family to seek assistance when it comes to holiday planning so your aging loved one does not feel the pressure of the holiday preparations and your aging loved one can have a caregiver companion that will ensure they are being well cared for so you can be at ease while moving along with your holiday planning.
When looking for a home care agency, make sure the caregivers are employees (not independent contractors), are bonded and insured, have passed criminal and driving background checks, are trained and supervised. The agency should be able to provide a substitute caregiver if the primary caregiver is ill, and will work with your schedule (including weekends and nights) to provide care when you need it. With a little bit of planning, you can reduce your stress and have a wonderful, memorable holiday!! “