Respite care is short term care for a senior. Whether in a community or at home, care is provided on a temporary basis while a caretaker is on vacation or indisposed due to surgery or illness.

Respite care can be a life saver for caregivers needing a break from the physical and mental demands and the stress of care giving! Caregivers can rest knowing that their loved one is well taken care of. This is also a great option if you and your loved one are considering full-time help or a move. This is a great way to "test the waters". Per Wikipedia, respite has been shown to help sustain family caregiver health and well being, avoid or delay out-of-home placements, and reduce the likelihood of abuse and neglect. An outcome based evaluation pilot study show that respite may also reduce the likelihood of divorce and help sustain marriages.