A week or two, for everyone's sake
Respite care
A short stay while the carer at home has a rest, a holiday or an operation, or to try the place out. You are looked after as if you were staying.
People caring at home are often exhausted before they will admit it. A short stay gives them a break, and it gives their husband, wife or mother a change of scene, with a bit of company.
We keep two rooms for respite, and they book up around summer and Christmas, so ring early. Before you arrive, a senior carer talks to you and the person you care for, about routines, medicines and what is likely to go wrong. Bring medicines in their original packs and enough for the stay, with a list from the GP.
Ask Carmarthenshire County Council for a carer's assessment. They may pay towards it. It is often a good first taste of a care home too, and many people who later move in started like this.
What is included
- A furnished room with a view
- A full care plan for the stay
- All meals, activities and personal care
- A phone call to you, if you want one, every day
What it costs
Respite is £1,150 a week, with a one-week minimum. That includes everything. Your local authority may help with the cost. The fees page works out a total and explains who pays what. Fees are reviewed each April, with three months' notice in writing.
Questions about respite care
How much notice do you need?
As much as possible, but ring us in an emergency. If a carer has been taken into hospital, we will do what we can that same day.
What if they do not settle?
We ring you and talk about it. Most people settle in within a couple of days. If not, you can take them home and pay only to that day, at the daily rate.
Come and see us. Any day.
No appointment. Ring the bell at any reasonable hour, and someone will show you round and put the kettle on. If you want to talk about money or care plans with Menna, ring first so that she is free.