Making Space to Recharge This Summer

Why respite care matters for family carers 

Caring for a parent or loved one is one of the most meaningful roles anyone can take on. It’s also one of the most demanding.  

While the summer holidays might seem like they offer a natural break from regular routines, for family carers, December and January can actually intensify the workload. 

When school holidays arrive, family commitments multiply. There are gatherings to organise, meals to coordinate, and the general busyness that comes with this time of year. For someone already managing the daily care of an elderly parent, these additional demands can feel like trying to pour from an already empty cup. 

If you’re feeling stretched thin, respite care might offer the breathing space you need. And taking that break isn’t about stepping away from your responsibilities. It’s about ensuring you can continue to care well, both for your loved one and for yourself. 

Understanding respite care 

Respite care provides temporary support that enables family carers to take time away from their caring responsibilities. This might be for a few hours, a few days, or even longer, depending on what you need. 

During respite periods, professional caregivers step in to provide the same kinds of support you’ve been offering. This could include companionship, meal preparation, personal care assistance, medication reminders, or simply being present to ensure safety and comfort. 

The beauty of respite care is its flexibility. You might arrange regular weekly visits that give you consistent time for yourself, or you might prefer occasional respite for specific events, appointments, or simply when you need to rest. 

Why breaks matter 

Research consistently shows that family carers who access respite support experience better physical and mental health. Taking time to recharge isn’t selfish. It’s practical. When you’re well-rested and have space to attend to your own needs, you’re better equipped to provide the patient, attentive care your loved one deserves. 

Without regular breaks, carer fatigue can build up gradually. You might notice yourself feeling increasingly tired, frustrated, or overwhelmed. Physical health can suffer, and the quality of care you’re able to provide may diminish, even with the best intentions. 

What respite might look like for you 

Respite care can be tailored to fit your specific situation. Perhaps you’d value a few hours each week to attend appointments, catch up with friends, or simply have time to yourself at home without care responsibilities. 

You might appreciate the opportunity to take a short holiday, knowing your parent is receiving professional support in familiar surroundings. Or maybe you’d find it helpful to have overnight care available occasionally, so you can get uninterrupted sleep. 

Some families arrange respite care during particularly busy periods, such as school holidays, while others prefer consistent, ongoing support that becomes part of their regular routine. 

Taking the first step 

If you’ve been considering respite care but haven’t yet reached out, the summer holidays might be the ideal time to explore your options. Starting with even a few hours of support can help you understand what works best for your situation. 

Professional aged care providers can discuss the types of respite care available and help you find an arrangement that suits both you and your loved one.  

Remember, accessing respite care doesn’t mean you’re not coping. It means you’re being thoughtful about sustainable caring. And that benefits everyone involved.