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Many families take great joy in caring for their loved ones so they can remain at home. However, caregiving is a full-time responsibility, and over time, it can become overwhelming. It’s natural to ask: “How do I take a break without worrying about my loved one’s safety and comfort?”

That’s where respite care comes in. Our short-term care service at Angel Carers allows carers to rest and recharge, while your loved one continues to receive compassionate, professional support at home.

If you’re unsure how to arrange respite care, this step-by-step guide, based on NHS advice and our 30+ years of experience, will help you get started with confidence.

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

Before arranging respite care, consider:

• How often do I need a break? A few hours, a full day, or longer?
• How long will it last? Occasional days or a planned week away?
• What type of support is needed? Personal care, mobility support, medical help, or companionship?
• What’s my goal? Rest, attending appointments, work commitments, or simply recharging?

Understanding your needs ensures you choose the right level of respite support.

Step 2: Explore Respite Care Options

There are several types of respite care, each with different benefits:

• In-Home Care: A carer visits your home, whether for a few hours, overnight, or as live-in support
• Adult Day Programs: Daytime care outside the home, with structured activities, meals, and supervision
• Residential or Facility-Based Care: A temporary stay in a care home or assisted living facility – ideal for longer breaks or when more support is required

Angel Carers specialises in in-home respite care, ensuring your loved one receives tailored support while remaining in the comfort and security of home.

Step 3: Prepare a Care Plan

A detailed care plan helps the respite carer provide consistent, high-quality support:

• Daily routines: Mealtimes, medications, bathing, sleep schedules
• Medical information: Allergies, medications, medical history, and emergency contacts
• Preferences: Hobbies, favourite activities, and communication styles
• Emergency procedures: How to handle sudden health issues

This preparation ensures your loved one feels safe and supported even in your absence.

Step 4: Start Small

If this is your first time using respite care, begin with a short period – maybe a few hours – so you and your loved one can adjust. Gradually build up to longer breaks as confidence grows.

This approach helps everyone feel comfortable and builds trust in the process.

Step 5: Monitor and Adjust

After each respite session:

• Ask for feedback from your loved one and the carer
• Evaluate whether the break met your needs
• Adjust timings, duration, or type of care as needed

Respite care is flexible – it can evolve as your caregiving situation changes.

Step 6: Address Common Concerns

Many caregivers hesitate to arrange respite care due to:

• Guilt: Feeling like they’re abandoning their loved one
• Cost: Worrying about affordability
• Trust: Fear that someone else won’t provide proper care

These are valid feelings – but they can be overcome. At Angel Carers, we:

• Provide affordable, flexible respite care designed around your budget.
• Carefully match carers to your loved one’s personality and needs.
• Offer free home care assessments so you feel fully supported before making decisions.

How Angel Carers Can Support You

With over 30 years’ experience, Angel Carers considers each client as part of the family. Our goal is to support you or your loved one in the comfort and security of your own home, while helping you retain as much independence as possible. Servicing the Dorset, Devon and South Somerset areas, we take time to understand your detailed needs, and our comprehensive assessment system allows us to deliver truly personalised care and the quality of life you deserve.

Our respite care service includes:

• Personal Care: Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Medication Administration: Ensuring timely and accurate medication management
• Meal Preparation: Preparing nutritious meals tailored to dietary requirements
• Housework: Light housekeeping to maintain a clean and comfortable environment
• Companionship and Support: Providing emotional support and engaging in meaningful activities
• Maintaining Daily Routines: Ensuring consistency in daily schedules and routines

Our experienced live-in carers integrate seamlessly into your loved one’s daily life, offering compassionate care and support.

📞 Thinking About Arranging Respite Care?

👉 Contact Angel Carers today, or call us on 01308 459204 or email us at contact@angelcarers.com to talk through your needs.

We offer a Free Home Care Assessment and will create a personalised plan tailored to your family.

Visit our page on Respite Care, Costs & Funding, and Our Services for more details about our services, costs, and funding.