In my previous experience in visiting many families in their homes and conducting assessments for proper care, I have found many families facing difficulty when trying to plan a three day get away but find it difficult to trust their loved ones being in the care of others or the loved one refusing to stay with anyone. There are things you can prepare in telling your loved one you need a break and things you can prepare yourself for so you feel good about the choices made.
• If you cannot speak to your loved one about staying a few days without you, find a friend of theirs who has gone through this and can assure them that they will be fine and this break is needed so the caregiver can come back rested and continue their duties refreshed.

• While a friend of your loved one is speaking to them or a trusted professional, look into local assisted living communities which do offer respite care for a reasonable price which has personal care, entertainment, meals, transportation, etc. or private in home caregivers is another option if your loved one cannot leave the home. In communities, this option will help you in trying the communities out in case your loved one needs placement at some point.

• If you choose a community, most will welcome you to come and have lunch with the residents which is great for having your loved one see the community prior to staying. In choosing a private caregiver, invite them over for lunch to find out if it’s a good fit.

• Most importantly, Don’t feel guilty -you need to get some rest, have some fun and refuel because being a caregiver can be exhausting and overwhelming. Your job in finding appropriate respite care and feeling good about the community or caregiver you choose is a well deserved break. You can continue the demands of care giving with fresh energy, love and peace of mind knowing they were in good hands with a new care giver and new found friend as well.