As a result of multiple responsibilities, caregiver stress and depression are central problems in efforts to keep older people in the community. Caregivers need to develop ways to protect their own physical and mental health. Such self-care techniques do not represent selfishness, but rather are intimately connected with the effective provision of care to their older relatives. When the caregiver feels better themselves, they are better equipped to provide the best care to someone else. Respite care is available to residents of Barton, Jasper, Newton and McDonald counties through the Area Agency on Aging and the Southwest Missouri chapter of the Alzheimer s Association.
Respite care is a form of temporary relief for the primary caregiver.
It provides rest or time away for the caregiver while someone else is providing care for the patient. Programs of these agencies differ somewhat in eligibility qualifications and the type of services provided. They work in cooperation to help the caregiver find the respite care plan which would be most beneficial to them and their care receiver. Additional counties are included in the Alzheimer s Association area. The Joplin Globe and may not be reproduced without permission.