February 26, 2026
If you’re caring for an aging parent, spouse, or other loved one, you know how demanding the role can be. Between managing medications, preparing meals, helping with personal care, and providing companionship, caregiving often becomes a round-the-clock responsibility. It’s meaningful work, but it’s also exhausting. That’s where respite care comes in—and it might be exactly what both you and your loved one need.
What is respite care?
Respite care is temporary care for your loved one that gives the primary caregiver a much-needed break. It’s a recognition that caregivers need rest to continue providing quality care over the long term.
Everyone’s heard the idiom you can’t pour from an empty cup, but that doesn’t make it any less true. Taking time to recharge isn’t selfish—it’s essential for everyone’s well-being, including the person you’re caring for.
Respite care can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on your needs. It might happen in your loved one’s home, at an adult day program, or in a residential care facility. The goal is always the same: To give you time to rest, handle personal matters, or simply take a breath while knowing your loved one is in capable hands.
“We’ve got a pretty good respite program,” said Alex Sims, Community Relations Director at Fieldstone of Keizer Village. “A lot of communities shy away from those shorter stays, but we’ll do 3-5 days or about a week. Our rate is all-inclusive, and that doesn’t depend on what kind of care you require.”
Sims shared some examples of how families use respite care.
“I had one resident whose wife went on a trip to Europe, and he stayed with us for two weeks,” said. “Others use it when they have a surgery and need to recover.”
Caregivers need respite
The statistics tell a sobering story. Family caregivers experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and physical health problems than noncaregivers. Many neglect their own medical appointments, skip meals, lose sleep, and sacrifice social connections. This isn’t sustainable, and it ultimately affects your ability to provide good care.
“It depends on the situation, but respite gives the caregiver a break while having the peace of mind that their loved one will be cared for,” Sims explained. “You can go on vacation or get that surgery you need.”
You might need respite care if you’re experiencing any of these signs of caregiver burnout:
- Feeling constantly exhausted
- Becoming easily frustrated or angry
- Withdrawing from friends and activities you used to enjoy
- Ignoring your own health needs
- Feeling resentful about your caregiving responsibilities
- Having trouble concentrating or making decisions
Recognizing these signs isn’t a failure—it’s wisdom. Taking breaks through respite care can help you return to caregiving refreshed and better able to provide patient, compassionate care.
So why is respite care an underused tool for family caregivers? These are some common concerns:
My loved one will feel abandoned. Most seniors understand that their caregivers need breaks. Some feel relieved to know they’re not overburdening you. Think of respite care as something that helps you continue caring for them in the long run, not as a punishment or abandonment. And if you can’t care for them forever, respite care offers a preview of how a longer-term stay could be.
“I liken it to test-driving a car,” Sims said. “You know what to expect when you move in. I have one lady who has stayed with us three or four times and will likely move in with us permanently sometime soon.”
I can’t afford it. Respite care costs vary widely. Some options, like adult day programs, may be covered by Medicaid, veterans’ benefits, or long-term care insurance. Local Area Agencies on Aging often know about subsidized programs.
“We have five levels of care, and that daily rate is inclusive of any of them,” Sims said. “If somebody has really complex care, we’ll evaluate that care individually.”
I feel guilty taking time for myself. This might be the biggest obstacle. Remember that taking care of yourself isn’t optional—it’s a necessary part of sustainable caregiving. Your loved one benefits when you’re healthy, rested, and emotionally balanced.
Getting started with respite care
Begin by assessing your needs. How often do you need breaks? What activities or tasks are you neglecting because of caregiving? Start small if the idea feels overwhelming. Try a few hours of in-home care or send your loved one to an adult day program for one day. See how it goes for both of you. Most families find that once they experience the benefits, they wish they’d started sooner.
Talk with your loved one about respite care when they’re having a good day. Explain that it helps you stay healthy so you can continue caring for them. Involve them in choosing the type of care if possible.
Sims noted that respite residents receive the same thorough care as permanent residents.
“The admission process for respite is the same as a move-in. We get the records from their doctor and interview their caregiver so that we can match that care as much as possible.”
Respite care isn’t a luxury—it’s a vital tool for sustainable caregiving. You deserve support. Your loved one deserves a caregiver who isn’t running on empty. Respite care helps make both of those things possible. The question isn’t whether you should consider respite care, but rather when you’ll take that first important step toward getting the support you need.