Selecting a respite care provider is an important decision, one that can give you peace of mind as well as that of your loved one. In Australia, where the support system, funding, and regulation seem complicated, having a clue about what to search for gives you the assurance you’re making the correct decision. The following are the major factors to consider, tips, and things to avoid when making the decision on respite care.
Understanding Respite Care and Why It Is Important
It’s helpful to know what respite care is first. Basically, respite care provides temporary relief for you, the primary carer, while continuing to provide your loved one with quality care. It may be for a few hours, an overnight stay, or more, but it provides a way for you to rest, run errands, have appointments or just take some time for yourself.
In Australia, respite care could be arranged through government-subsidised services (through My Aged Care or NDIS, depending on your eligibility) or privately.
It’s essential you know what your entitlements are and what part of the costs, if any, you will contribute.
But aside from the money, who does the work and how competently it is done is the more intimate, important aspect.
What to Look for in a Respite Care Provider
Following are the key qualities and standards which you must prioritize:
1. Matching Services with Needs
First, determine the needs of the person you look after – physical, medical, emotional, cognitive or social needs. Their mobility, medical conditions, liked routines or activities are all considerations. An ideal provider should provide services which complement those needs.
Don’t settle for generalities such as “we do everything.” Ask what they do if the person has dementia, limited mobility, behavioural issues or needs medication management.
2. Experience, Training and Qualifications
Respite care is more than an extra hand. Carers need to have first aid training, dementia care training, medication management, mobility assistance and more, depending on your loved one’s situation.
It is a plus if employees have actual experience caring for people like yours, rather than vague caregiving positions. Demand ongoing professional development and criminal background checks.
3. Compassion, Respect and Communication
One of the biggest things individuals seek is compassion.
Your provider should care for your loved one with respect, hear them out regarding their preferences, be patient and kind, and provide emotional support.
Good communication is just as important. You require frequent updates, feedback loops and transparency to your questions. A responsive and open provider will keep you sleeping better.
4. Dependability, Professionalism and Adaptability
Your respite caregiver needs to be reliable. They should honor scheduling, provide advance notice of changes, and fulfill promises.
Since life is uncertain, seek flexibility. For instance, can they provide last-minute backup in an emergency respite? Do they adjust when care requirements increase?
5. Environment, Accessibility and Accreditation
In case the respite is in-house or facility-based, go visit the place. Ensure it is clean, safe, accessible and provides a comfortable environment. See how staff engage with residents, and how the layout is planned.
Check for accreditation or regulation. In aged care, providers must satisfy the standards set by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
If you’re using NDIS funds, make sure the provider is registered or approved under NDIS standards.
6. Cost, Availability and Location
Respite care costs differ. Some of it can be subsidised if the individual is approved under My Aged Care or NDIS, but you’ll still have to pay out-of-pocket.
See if they’re available, there are some providers who are full many weeks in advance.
Make sure they can fit in the times and dates you require, including emergencies.
Location is important, as well. You’d like a provider who’s within reasonable distance to allow visits, reduce travel stress, and keep the individual in familiar environments when they can.
How to Assess and Contrast Providers
When you have a shortlist, this is how you compare and choose:
Interview providers: Bring a list of questions regarding staff training, procedures, emergency procedures, staff-to-client ratio, communication with family members, etc.
Request trial time: If at all possible, set up a trial or “introductory session” so that you observe how your loved one reacts to them.
Check references and reviews: Ask previous clients about their experience.
Ask about governance, policies and staff turnover: These show how stable and dependable the provider is.
Ask for a written agreement: What is included precisely, cancellation policy, additional fees, rights and responsibilities.
Having a placement or referral agency use may also simplify this. In Australia, certain aged care placement agencies assist in finding you a respite provider that suits your criteria.
Red Flags
- Providers who guarantee “everything” without explaining how
- Not being transparent about fees or charging “hidden” fees
- High staff turnover or inexperienced staff
- Avoidance of communication or refusal to respond to questions you have
- Crowded or run-down facilities
- Services that do not honor your loved one’s routines, preferences or dignity
If it doesn’t feel right, listen to your gut, dig deeper.
Conclusion
Selecting the right respite care provider is about trust, respect and safety. When you find a caregiver who truly knows your loved one’s needs, communicates effectively, and offers reliable, caring support, the sense of relief you and your family experience is immense.
If you’d prefer a helping hand in securing the proper respite care in your neighborhood or would like an advocate who already knows your circumstances, Duty Care Services is at your service. We’ll assist with sorting through possibilities, questioning prudently, and making sure the services fit your needs to the letter. Call whenever you need to, no strings attached, just advocacy for you and your loved ones.