Need advice-"Respite Care" for senior?

[abitjaded]

Dear all, I have a dilemma. DH, the kids and I had planned a six day Disney vacation WITHOUT the whole family. This means leaving my 87 yo mom at home alone (she lives with us). She hates being alone, not senile at all, but she has lots of health issues and has depression and mild panic attacks. My out-of-state SIL was going to stay with her while we are gone, but this has fallen through. What is the best way to go about getting her some company and a square meal or two each day?

Carla

 

[Schmeck]

Do you know of any home health care agencies in your area? They can be pricey, but a private one can give you whatever services you require fo your mom. Is there a Meals on Wheels program?

 

[scrapperjill]

You say your mom has some health issues...is it something that will require a medical trained person to be with her 24/7? If not you may look into other places other than home health...which is very very spendy. We have an organization called Aging and long term care...where people go to homes and just keep people company...help with some meals...maybe lite housework and/or shopping. We also have a placed called People for People...they help with a very wide range of things for people in the community. You could also so try some of your community centers...they may have some referals or ideas for your area. What about friends, family, or fellow church members? Ask around...maybe someone you work with knows someone...or some group in your area. It's hard to give advice when you don't know the area and what is available....which I'm sure there are things out there it's just a matter of finding them. Best of luck.

 

[dj2]

some assisted living homes have respite rooms available where a senior can stay while the usual caregivers are on vacation. probably $100-150 per night---based on the info i collected a few weeks ago when we were looking for a place for my FIL to move to permanentlly.

or, if you're looking for someone to come to your home, perhaps you could contact local churches to see if they have volunteers who are willing to do this.

 

[mamajoan]

I am glad you are getting some time for yourselves! Caregivers need a break. Usually some time away makes you an even better caregiver when you return from holiday.

dj2 gave you a great suggestion.. Some SNFs and Assisted Care facilities will allow a private pay patient to ''check'' in for short term stays. This will take a little bit of work to accomplish.. especially the first stay. She would have to go thru the "normal routine" of admitting procedures even tho she will only be there temporarily. This option is the most secure but also the most expensive.

Home Health agencies often have private duty home health aides that can be scheduled 24/7 or less. Usually an RN has to make the first visit. The aide always has backup from the agency. So you can be assured that your mother would be taken care of in case of an emergency. A home health aide will help your mom with her activities of daily living, meals, personal laundry, personal care and medications. Make sure to ask if the agency has a private care rate as this service will not be covered by insurance.

Check with her Doctor.. the office should be able to give you a referral to local Home Health agencies and SNF's.. skilled nursing facilities.
Have a great trip!