caregiver helps older woman

The Value of Respite Care

For family members of those with special needs or disabilities, caregiving can be a full-time job. The caregiver’s other responsibilities, relationships, and personal needs often take a backseat to their caregiving duties. Neglecting these aspects of one’s life typically leads to burnout. Many caregivers avoid this burnout through respite care.

What Is Respite Care?

Respite care temporarily provides planned or emergency care to a person who is sick, elderly, or has disabilities. This service offers short-term and time-limited breaks for families and other unpaid caregivers to relax, rejuvenate, and attend to their own needs.

Who Benefits from Respite Care?

Anyone who is a caregiver regularly can benefit from respite care. Whether the care recipient is a child with special needs, someone with a chronic illness, or a senior with a disease such as Alzheimer’s, their caregiver can benefit from respite care.

While respite care primarily benefits caregivers by allowing them time for self-care, errands, and socializing, it also helps the person in their care. When caregivers have a chance to relax and recharge, they can be more attentive and responsive to their caregiving duties.

What Does Respite Care Look Like?

Respite services look different, depending on the situation. In-home respite care professionals might be the best option for people with more severe needs or those who have difficulty leaving home. Alternatively, for children or individuals who enjoy socializing and activities, daycare centers or community centers can be excellent sources of respite care.

Respite care also might vary in frequency. For example, some caregivers may only utilize respite care services on an occasional or as-needed basis, whereas others might need them weekly or even daily.


Envision Unlimited supports individuals with disabilities and their families. We have fulfilled that mission since 1948. Our offerings, which include day programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; mental health, residential, and employment services; specialized foster care, and accredited applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy for children and adults, are designed to address the unique needs of each of our clients—regardless of age, background, or ability.

Our services are grounded in a spirit of advocacy and empowerment. We believe all individuals can live successful lives if given the right opportunities. Contact us today to see how we can help you!