Making a Decision
What is Respite? The Book Definition: Respite is defined as temporary short-term care provided to a disabled individual for the purpose of providing relief to the parent or primary caregiver. Respite is utilized by parents to conduct errands, keep appointments, go on vacation, spend time with their spouse, or with other children, handle emergencies, or simply to relax..." (Source: Respite Care, Support for Persons with Developmental Disabilities and Their Families, Christine L. Salisbury, James Intagiata, 1986 p 100)
"All I do is nursing or therapy...it's my right to have some time OFF!"
Do I really need respite? Every parent needs respite. Parents of children with special needs often feel emotionally or physically exhausted or both. Respite is something you need and deserve. By supporting you as a caregiver, respite resources help the whole family. There are pros and cons to the different kinds of respite services available. At the very least, everyone needs an emergency plan. In order for this plan to be effective, your child needs to be comfortable with other caregivers, and respite resources offer him or her a safe way to "practise".
Two ways of thinking about respite • Economic survival (making enough money to live, finding and keeping a good job, managing the budget, teaching children about money)
However, a family doesn't have to be in dire straits before seeking respite. From a broader perspective, caregivers can do their jobs well only when their own needs are met. It's like flying with a child on an airplane - in case of emergency, you're always instructed to put on your own oxygen mask first, and only then take care of the child. It's the same with respite. Difficult as it may be, you must first make sure that you are okay before you can effectively care for your children. Here are some of the benefits families may find through respite:
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