In this guide from a series on care, you might find helpful information on respite care.

Taking time off is essential, especially if you are caring for a loved one. Providing care can be both rewarding and demanding, so having the option of a short-term stay in a care home, known as respite care, can offer much-needed relief while ensuring your loved one is well looked after.

The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) is a not-for-profit charitable trust that has people and care at the heart of everything it does. Their experienced teams are passionate about the care they provide, and they will help guide you through options for loving care that’s right for you or your loved one.

What is respite care?

Respite care refers to a short-term stay, typically lasting from one to six weeks, in a care home. The Order of St John Trust offers this type of care to give both caregiver, and those receiving care, a break. While caregivers can take time off from caring responsibilities, care recipients get to enjoy a change of scenery and experience a high level of care in a professional, supportive environment.

When to arrange respite care

Every caregiver and care recipient’s needs are different, and respite care offers flexibility to accommodate a variety of situations. You might consider respite care if you are planning a holiday or need extra support during a busy period like the Christmas season. Another example of when you might consider respite care is if your loved one is recovering after an illness or operation, or if they might benefit from spending time among other people. 

Respite care is also an opportunity to try a care home as a potential long-term care option. A short-term stay offers a "trial run" to see if a particular home is the right fit before making any long-term commitments.

Respite care is as unique as you are and The Orders of St John Care Trust tailors the care they provide to your specific circumstances, needs and interests.

Preparing for respite care

The Orders of St John Care Trust advises considering a few practical details before a respite stay.  For example:

Payment and contracts: payment and signed contracts for the respite stay are typically required before arrival in the care home. However, in the case of emergencies, OSJCT can accommodate a quicker process.

Visitors: make sure the location of the care home is easily accessible to anyone who may want to visit your loved one. Being close to those who regularly spend time with your loved one can ease the transition.

Medication: give your registered doctor advance notice of the stay so that any scheduled appointments can be adjusted. You’ll also need to arrange for any necessary medication for the duration of the stay and provide it in the original, unopened packaging. Consider bringing extra medication to cover the period when your loved one returns home, ensuring there’s no rush to restock.

Personal items: pack a few small favourite personal items to make the stay more comfortable. All clothing and personal belongings should be labelled. It’s also a good idea to bring comfortable, easy-to-wash clothing, as items that require specialist cleaning (like cashmere or silk) may not be suitable for a short stay.

You can find more guidance here.

The benefits of respite care

A respite stay allows you to step away from caregiving duties, rest, and focus on your own well-being. It’s important to take a break, if you need one, from the emotional and physical demands of caregiving, knowing your loved one is being looked after in a safe, comfortable and friendly environment.

Respite care provides peace of mind knowing your loved one is supported and well cared for.

During a respite stay at The Orders of St John Care Trust, your loved one will experience the same level of care, attention, and access to amenities as longer-term residents. The charity encourages all residents to retain as much independence as possible and enjoy life to the fullest.

This could be making sure your loved one has all they need to make a speedy recovery and regain confidence after a hospital stay. Or it could be encouraging them to join in activities, from favourite hobbies to new experiences, and enjoy nutritious meals. If your loved one has specific preferences, these are taken into account during their stay to make their experience more enjoyable.

If you choose a short stay with The Orders of St John Care Trust, your loved one will experience a nurturing environment where they will benefit from loving care and be able to continue doing the things they love or try something new, among friends.

For more information

The Orders of St John Care Trust offers a range of care services across the county of Wiltshire and beyond, including Avon Court and Bourne House in Old Sarum, Hayward Care Centre in Devizes, and Goodson Lodge in Trowbridge. 

Visit www.osjct.co.uk/wiltshire or call 0330 191 3551 to find out more.