Caring for a family member is a full‑time commitment that can be both rewarding and exhausting. Respite care is short‑term support that lets the primary carer step away for a few hours or days so they can rest, work or simply recharge. During that break, trained professionals step in to provide safe and meaningful care for the person who needs assistance.
Why Taking Regular Breaks Is Important for Preventing Burnout
- Caregivers who get enough sleep are healthier and more resilient.
- Enhances relationships: Spending time apart can lessen household stress.
- Encourages independence by allowing participants to try new things and interact with new people.
- Encourages long-term care: Regular breaks allow caregivers to stay in their positions for years as opposed to months.
Common Types of Respite Care
| Respite Type | Where It Happens | Typical Length | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| In‑home respite | Support worker visits the family home | 2 – 8 hours | People who feel safer in familiar surroundings |
| Day programs | Community or day centre | Half or full day | Adults who enjoy group activities and social contact |
| Overnight cottage stay | Small, home‑style setting with staff on site | 1 – 7 nights | Participants who want a change of scenery without travelling far |
| Short Term Accommodation (STA) | Purpose‑built residence with 24/7 staff | Up to 14 consecutive days | People building life skills or whose carers need a longer break |
| Emergency respite | Arranged quickly through local agencies | As needed | Unexpected hospital stays or family emergencies |
Funding at a Glance
| Program | Who Can Apply | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| NDIS Short Term Accommodation | Participants with goals around independence or sustaining informal supports | Accommodation, meals, 24/7 support, community activities |
| Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) | Australians aged 65 + (or 50 + for First Nations) who need low‑level help | Planned day or overnight respite and transport |
| Carer Gateway Emergency Respite | Unpaid carers across Australia | Rapid respite when the usual carer is suddenly unavailable |
| Private or Self‑Funded | Anyone | Tailored stays with no government limits |
If you are unsure which stream suits your family, start by discussing your needs with a GP, social worker or support coordinator.
Booking a Respite Break with Elmur Community Services
- Tell us what you need
Start by letting us know the dates you’d like off and how long you’ll be away. A quick chat or email is all it takes. - Sort out the dollars
Look at your NDIS plan or CHSP paperwork to see if respite is covered. If not, you can always pay privately—no hoops to jump through. - Give us a call
We’ll sit down together (over the phone or in person) and talk through the details: goals, favourite foods, daily routines—anything that helps us make the stay feel right. - Lock it in
We send a short, plain‑English agreement and a custom schedule. Sign it, send it back, and the booking is set. - Enjoy your time out
While you recharge, your loved one will be safe, engaged and cared for by a team that treats them like family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Two to four weeks is ideal, though Elmur can often help on shorter notice.
Yes. Familiar pillows, devices or hobbies can make the stay more comfortable.
No. Regular home or school supports continue once the respite period ends.
Absolutely. Many families start with a single afternoon or overnight to see how everyone feels.
Important Takeaways
- A temporary service, respite care is advantageous to both caregivers and the individuals they assist.
- A few hours of in-home assistance or two weeks in fully staffed housing are among the options.
- There are several funding sources, such as the NDIS, CHSP, and Carer Gateway’s emergency respite program.
- Everyone will have a stress-free, easy break if they plan ahead and work with a reliable supplier like Elmur.
Caregivers can continue to give their families the love and stability they need when they take care of themselves. That is made possible by respite care. Call (08) 6558 8814 or email info@elmur.com.au today.
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