One aspect some people forget to consider when caring for a family member is a holiday. Especially when you are caring for someone who is very dependent on you. No matter how much you love that person, caring for our spouse, mother, father or other relative can be physically and mentally challenging.
We can all remember our summer holidays - trips to the beach, catch up with friends or a visit to a far away destination. They provided opportunities to relax, try new experiences, taste different foods and of course, there is always the shopping!
As we age though, and we can no longer take those holidays because we can no longer lift those suitcases, climb all those stairs to the hotel, or our health perhaps doesn't enable us to be up and about all day, life can feel like its turning in on you - no matter if you are the carer or the one being cared for.
This is where respite care can really provide a break for all concerned. A change of scene for everyone can provide a different kind of break - both a physically and mentally. Our respite care service is invaluable to many people we support each year.
For someone who needs nursing care, they can enjoy a week (or more) at St Luke's taking the opportunity to be cared for by a professional, multidisciplinary team of staff. With our array of activities, musical performances, private gardens and library, we have a lot to occupy the body and mind. The cafe on the ground floor also provides a great place to meet up with other people staying at St Luke's and we are always open for visitors.
For the carer, having their loved one looked after at St Luke's also brings an opportunity to take a holiday - go visit other relatives or to take that trip overseas which they have been putting off.
Respite breaks do just that - give everyone a break so that when families are reunited back home, everyone is feeling rested and restored. If you would like to know more about our respite care or other services, please call 01865 228800 or email enquiries@stlukeshosp.co.uk
