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Real members of myALZteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Do any of you as caregivers use respite care?

A myALZteam Member asked a question 💭
Leon, IA

My husband was diagnised 2 years ago with alzheimers, but looking back I believe it started more than 5 years ago. I retired early so that I can stay home and take care of him as long as possible. He can still do most physical things, sometimes requiring help. Memories are mostly gone and starting to not remember names except for close family and friends. I am planning a trip from home here in Iowa to my brothers in Maryland with my sister. At first I planned to take my husband with me, but I… read more

January 2, 2019
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Answer Summary

Members strongly encouraged someone considering respite care for their husband with Alzheimer's to take the trip and recharge, emphasizing... Read more

Members strongly encouraged someone considering respite care for their husband with Alzheimer's to take the trip and recharge, emphasizing that caregiver burnout is real and self-care is essential for the long journey ahead. Several members shared their own experiences with respite care, describing how their loved ones adjusted well to temporary placements, with one member noting that the respite stay eventually led to a longer-term residential care decision that benefited both of them. A recurring theme was the importance of finding sustainable caregiving arrangements, whether through respite programs, adult daycare, or support groups, and trusting that professional care facilities can provide safety and comfort while caregivers take necessary breaks.

A myALZteam Member

KarenCollins, I did this just last year as I desperately needed a break and traveling with my husband was extremely stressful for both of us. He is pretty far along on the journey. He seemed to do well with the change and so, when I returned, the decision was made to continue his stay at the residential care facility. They are encountering the same difficulties with him as I was. He seems happy and only seems to remember his childhood home. The only change has been a recent refusal to eat, but I believe this is part of the normal progression of this horrible disease.

January 4, 2019
A myALZteam Member

If you can put him in respite go and get recharged this is a long race

January 16, 2019
A myALZteam Member

I've been caregiver to my mom 6-7 years now. Only found out mom had dementia/sundowners syndrome in December of 2017....so all the years before, I just thought she was being mean to me....lots of tears and devastation. Talk about me with me sitting right next to her. Quit eating food cause she thought I was trying to make her sick. Paranoia, delusions, mean and nasty...

January 4, 2019
A myALZteam Member

I'm frustrated with the studies here in Canada at least. You have to be 65 to participate and if it's say 15 years minimum that it can start, why wait till I'm 65

January 2, 2019
A myALZteam Member

Yes , do yourself a recharge , it will help you and him I read somewhere they say it starts 15 to 20 years sometimes before you know it’s there

January 2, 2019

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