Caregivers who need a break, help is available

Today’s Sound Off concerns respite care:

Dear Readers: I get so many letters from caregivers who have family mem- bers they take care of without help from other family members. It’s not an easy task to look after someone who may need around-the- clock care, or who acts inappropriately whenever they become frustrated by real or imaginary problems.

When this happens, the caregiver places their health in danger from sheer fatigue and a need for relief. This is the time to call a family meeting and ask other family members to step in and help out. If this is not an option, there is respite care. To find respite care near you, contact a local hospice, home for the elderly or a doctor you normally visit and trust. There are various options they can provide for you while you take a vacation or have a few days of rest and relaxation.

So, who pays for this respite care? That varies according to your situation and coverage. It’s best to contact an agency either by phone or computer to find out what each agency offers and to do some comparisons to see which fits your needs best.

Will the person receiving the care object? Maybe, maybe not. A lot will depend on how it’s handled. Ask the agency you’re working with how you should tell the other person that you are taking a few days off. Believe me, the professionals will know what to say and do.

You may be tired, or your patience is wearing thin. But there is help out there, and you have access to it if you have a telephone or a computer. You can type in “respite care” or “help with senior care” and get started. There is nothing wrong with asking for help. — Heloise

Fast facts

We received a number of letters from people who had suggestions on what to give someone as a holiday gift, especially an elderly person:

■ Give them the gift of your time.

■ Share a meal with them at their favorite restaurant.

■ Take them with you when visiting older family members.

■ Organize an album of family photographs and pres- ent it to them.

■ Offer to clean their home or do yard work for them.

SEND A GREAT HINT TO: Heloise

Box 795001

San Antonio, TX 78279-5001 Fax: 1-210-HELOISE