Respite comes in many forms and is very important to the health and wellbeing of carers. Respite is when someone else provides services or supports so a carer can take a break from their caring role or just receive some help in their caring role.
Respite can be for a few hours, a few days or longer and can take place at home, in the community, at a centre or in a residential care facility. Emergency respite is available in times of crisis at short notice.
Bendigo Health Carer Support Services can help carers plan and organise respite care and may cover some of the expense.
Eligibility for access to government subsidised residential respite services is assessed by the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) through the My Aged Care system.
Emergency Respite
If a carer becomes sick or injured and can’t continue to support the person they care for, Carer Gateway can organise emergency respite services to take over care while they recover.
If a carer needs emergency respite, they can call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 at any time.
Emergency Care Plan
It’s a good idea for carers to make an emergency care plan in case someone else needs to take over for them in an emergency.
If you would like a hard copy of this document, please contact Carer Support Services on 5454 7719 or [email protected].
Carer Events
Bendigo Health Carer Support Services also coordinate carer events from time to time to provide an opportunity for carers to take some time out for themselves to recharge. Click here to find out more.