It’s an understatement to say that Care Partners of those living with Memory Loss face a unique challenge. Coming up against cognitive decline and physical changes can be extremely overwhelming, leading to stress and significant burnout. In this post, we talk about the support available for Care Partners, from respite care to counselling and specialized services. 

The Demands of Caregiving for those Living with Memory Loss

Caring for a loved one living with Memory Loss can be a daunting task. It requires patience, dedication, and selflessness that few have the capacity for. A Care Partner provides physical, emotional, and mental support for those living with Memory Loss by assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), meal preparation, social interaction, shopping, medication management, and financial responsibilities. 

The constant demands of caregiving can easily take a toll on the Care Partner’s physical and mental health. In fact, Care Partners often find themselves sacrificing their own needs and desires, which is why it’s crucial to seek support and respite whenever possible. 

Understanding Respite Care

Respite care provides temporary relief to Care Partners by offering support and professional care for their loved ones who are living with Memory Loss. It’s a short-term solution that can make a world of difference for both Care Partners and their loved ones. 

Respite care allows Care Partners to have a break from their responsibilities, which can lead to improved mental health, reduced stress, and an enhanced ability to provide better care in the long term. 

Moreover, for people living with Memory Loss, respite care offers a safe and nurturing environment where they can enjoy activities and social interaction while having their care needs tended to by professional caregivers. It is a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Types of Respite Care

Respite care can mean different things to different people. It can give Care Partners a reprieve for an hour, a day, or even overnight. Below are some common types of respite care available to Care Partners and those living with Memory Loss. 

  • Short-Term Stays: Most notably described as overnight respite care for adults, short-term care can range from three days to several nights at a licensed Memory Care environment. 
  • Long-Term Stays: In the event that a person living with Memory Loss requires around-the-clock care and supervision that a Care Partner can no longer provide, long-term stays in a Memory Care environment are available. 
  • Premium Day Programs: Provided by a team of healthcare professionals, these programs involve one-day and half-day customized individual and group activities that focus on cognitive care, physical fitness, socialization, and overall care. 
  • In-Home Respite Care: If the person living with Memory Loss is able to remain in their home, in-home respite care involves a third-party Care Partner or Personal Support Worker (PSW) coming into the home daily to offer support.
  • Adult Day Programs: Offered in a safe and supervised environment outside of the home, these programs provide social and recreational activities daily for those living with a form of dementia. 

Benefits of Respite Care

The benefits of respite care are numerous, offering some much-needed relief to the primary Care Partner. With reduced caregiver stress and improved mental and emotional well-being, respite care allows the Care Partner to recharge their batteries and focus on self-care. 

Additionally, respite care enables the Care Partner to provide enhanced quality care for the person living with Memory Loss. By taking on the responsibility of caring for someone with Memory Loss, Care Partners often put their own well-being on the back burner. Respite care provides an opportunity for caregivers to prioritize their health and well-being, leading to improved quality of life for both the caregiver and the person living with Memory Loss.

Tools and Resources for Care Partners

Below are some tools and resources available to Care Partners.

Local Respite Care Providers

For Respite Care in Markham or Oakville, Memory & Company offers two world-class Memory Care environments to choose from. Both locations provide VIP treatment for people living with Memory Loss through programs and accommodations while also providing support for Care Partners. 

Government Assistance Programs

Both the Canadian government and the provincial government offer various grants and financial assistance for Alzheimer’s and dementia care programs. These can be accessed by contacting the Alzheimer Society of Canada at (416) 967-5900 or 1-855-7054636. They can also be contacted via email at info@alzheimer.ca

Support Groups and Counselling Services

Contact the Alzheimer Society of Ontario, The Ontario Caregiver Organization, your local Alzheimer’s Society chapter, the Toronto Dementia Network, or the Family Caregiver Alliance for more information and support. The Alzheimer Society of Canada can help direct you to local community support groups. 

Online Care Partner Communities

Local and worldwide support groups, such as Dementia Talks! Canada, iGericare, and CareNav are available to support Care Partners 24/7. 

Explore Memory & Company’s Respite Care Options and Seek Support

For Memory Loss support and assistance for Care Partners, contact Memory & Company. As the world’s first Respite Hotel and Premium Day Program, our team of professionals provides guidance through resources, advocacy, and compassionate support. We offer short- and long-term accommodations and a safe, guilt-free environment for people living with Memory Loss and their Care Partners. 

At Memory & Company, our highly skilled and trained Team Members provide medical care, physical fitness, and socialization programs to help slow Memory Loss and improve a person’s daily life. Call us at (905) 888-8808 or email info@memoryandcompany.com to book a personal tour.