Supporting Caregivers: Gilchrist’s Respite Care Program Offers Families a Much-Needed Break
November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the dedication of those who tirelessly care for loved ones around the clock. At Gilchrist, we understand the challenges and potential burnout caregivers face in this demanding role. That’s why we’re committed to supporting not only our patients but also the family members and caregivers through our Respite Care Program, designed to provide much-needed relief and help families manage the daily demands of caregiving with renewed strength and support.
Planned Respite for Scheduled Caregiver Breaks
Caregiving can be an all-consuming role, often leaving family members with little time to recharge. Gilchrist Center Towson and Gilchrist Center Howard offer caregivers two types of respite care. “We have families who are planning a life event or may have a scheduled medical procedure and foresee needing a break from caregiving responsibilities,” Catherine Frome, Director of Community Programs and Partnerships at Gilchrist, explains. “In these cases, caregivers can submit a request to receive respite care at one of our locations, and we’ll coordinate to book them on our calendar and plan for that respite.”
Support for Sudden Care Needs
However, not all needs for respite care are anticipated. “Then, there are cases of circumstantial need, where a family member may experience a sudden health event and urgently need a caregiver for that night, as the primary caregiver has fallen ill or just needs immediate relief,” Catherine adds. In these situations, Gilchrist evaluates each case individually, checking bed availability to accommodate last-minute requests whenever possible. If they can’t, Gilchrist refers the family to trusted community-based partners who may have space.
Respite Care Benefits Caregivers and Patients
Respite care not only provides caregivers with a break but also ensures that patients are looked after in a secure, compassionate environment. Catherine notes, “Our team is always assessing how the patient and family are coping. As patients decline, they need more care, and families may experience increased fatigue or strain in relationships. This is where respite care becomes essential, giving families a chance to recharge while their loved one is cared for by our team.”
Flexible Options for Extended Care Needs
Gilchrist’s Respite Care Program includes up to five days of Medicare-covered support, although families can opt to extend the stay by paying out-of-pocket for additional days. For example, if a family is planning a 10-day trip, Medicare covers the first five days, and the family can pay privately for the remaining five days. This flexibility allows families to plan around their needs while knowing their loved one is in safe hands.
Who Qualifies for Gilchrist’s Respite Care
A key requirement for respite care through Gilchrist is that patients must already be enrolled in the hospice program. This ensures that they meet Medicare regulations for respite services. “If people want to learn more about Gilchrist’s respite care program, they can contact our Care Navigation team,” Catherine advises. “This team helps families assess their needs and directs them to the appropriate services, whether it be hospice, elder medical care, or palliative care.”
A Personal Perspective on Respite Care
Catherine’s experience with Gilchrist’s Respite Care Program is also personal. “Both of my parents were on hospice with Gilchrist,” she says. “My mom had end-stage dementia, and my father was her primary caregiver. When we finally persuaded him to agree to respite care, it energized him enough to continue his commitment to her care.
This National Family Caregivers Month, Gilchrist celebrates and supports the caregivers who devote their energy, time, and love to those in need. If you or someone you know could benefit from a breakthrough in Gilchrist’s Respite Care Program, contact the Care Navigation team to learn more about how we can help.
To learn more about Gilchrist’s programs, visit: https://gilchristcares.org/ or call 1-888-823-8880.