Being a caregiver of a person with special needs can cause frustration, burnout, and poor health. Primary caregivers often neglect their own health and well-being, and they have higher rates of disease and early death than the general population. The long days, sleepless nights, and stress of being a caregiver have a cumulative effect and can even lead to abuse, neglect, violence and suicide.
Individuals with a learning disability or another special healthcare need require a caregiver with unique characteristics. Effective caregiving requires empathy, compassion, patience, good communication skills, and physical strength. Trained and experienced caregivers are rare, and most caregiving falls on the shoulders of family members, who find it to be a full-time job. While there are programs and government assistance available to assist primary caregivers, these do not go far in eliminating fatigue and burnout.
The best way to reduce the stress of being a caregiver is to have access to regular, affordable, and safe respite care. Respite care facilities include independent living facilities for people with learning disabilities, epilepsy care homes, autism group homes, and even overnight nursing care funded by insurance companies and Medicaid. Research has proven that respite care works. It translates into happier, healthier primary caregivers who report feeling more fulfilled in their roles and better outcomes for those with special needs. Male primary caregivers report fewer instances of abuse, neglect, and violence, as well as fewer distractions and better focus.
To find the right respite care, it is important to consider several factors. First, ensure that respite caregivers have no criminal record, as this is typically a requirement for employment at most agencies. Second, ask tough questions about abuse prevention procedures, hiring practices, insurance coverage, and the ability to drop by unexpectedly. Third, check ratings and reviews online, and fourth, check if the company is a member of the Better Business Bureau and how they handle complaints. Following these steps will help find great respite care.
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