Respite breaks for Carers

Respite & Carer Support Positive Ageing Wellbeing Health

Caring for an ageing loved one is a rewarding experience, but it also has its challenges. To keep up with the demands that caring for a loved one has, it’s important you look after your own health and take some time to refresh and recharge.

Respite breaks for carers with the help of a relative, close friend or through an aged care provider is beneficial for both yourself and the person you’re caring for.

Most people choose to either place their loved one in an aged care centre or enlist the help of a carer at home, so you can take some time out with peace of mind knowing your loved one is well taken care of. They can enjoy a change of scenery, meet new people and have access to engaging activities they may be unable to do at home.

In 2017-2018, nearly 80,000 Australians entered into residential respite care.

GEN Aged Care Data

According to GEN Aged Care Data this number is increasing every year, with a 40% jump since 2009.

There’s no doubt that every individual’s circumstances are different, but respite breaks for carers is flexible and allows you the opportunity to tailor the care provided to the needs of the individual.

Respite at home

Many home care providers like IRT provide respite care to new and existing customers. A care worker will come and visit for a few hours or take your loved one on an outing to places they love to visit, like the local shops or a nearby park.

Friends and family

Don't be afraid to ask friends or family for a helping hand. If you need to run an errand or go to an appointment it might be ideal to have a family member or close friend stay at your home with your loved one while you're out.

Residential respite

A short stay in a residential aged care centre is available to anyone who needs help caring for a loved one – whether it’s to go on a holiday, for a medical reason, or because you simply need a break. It can also be a way to trial whether longer-term accommodation and care is a suitable option.

Emergency respite

If you have an emergency such as a sudden admission into hospital, you're able to access emergency respite at short notice. To find out more, contact your local Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres.

Find out more here

It may feel like accessing residential respite care in an aged care centre is a daunting process, so we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

If you’re not already approved for respite care, phone My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 and arrange for an aged care assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) for your loved one in your own home.

Once they have been assessed, you can choose to access paid respite care as often as you like, with 63 days each financial year being subsidised by the government. To find out what subsidies you may be eligible for contact My Aged Care.

If you’re interested in respite care with IRT, submit an enquiry through our website or call 134 478, and one of our friendly Customer Service team members will discuss with you your needs and preferences, plus determine availability at an IRT aged care centre near you.

IRT offers short-term accommodation and care in a number of our aged care centres throughout NSW, the ACT and Queensland. There’s bound to be a convenient location near you.

A tentative respite booking will be made for you and your loved one to take a tour of your preferred aged care centre. You’ll also meet with the Care Manager, to discuss your needs in more detail.

Once your booking has been confirmed, finalise your paperwork, which will confirm your loved ones’ move in date and length of stay, and prepare for their stay in your selected IRT aged care centre.

Find an IRT aged care centre to suit your needs

Respite residents at IRT are cared for 24/7 by our compassionate and experienced staff, allowing carers to enjoy a well-deserved break.

To find the IRT care centre that best fits your needs, head to our location finder and find the ideal place for you and your loved one.