Caring for someone you love is a big commitment. Whether you look after an elderly parent, a child with special needs, or a family member with a disability, your time, energy, and love make a huge difference.
But even the most dedicated carers need time to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves. Without breaks, it’s easy to feel exhausted, stressed, and overwhelmed — and that can affect the quality of care you give.
This is where respite care comes in. Respite care gives you a short-term break while someone else looks after your loved one. It’s not about walking away from your responsibilities — it’s about sharing them for a short time so you can return refreshed and ready to provide the best care possible.
When Might You Need to Use Respite Care?
There are many times when respite care can be helpful for both carers and the people they support. Here are some common situations:
- You need a short break: Whether it’s to run errands, attend a medical appointment, or simply have some personal time, respite care offers a chance to rest and recharge.
- You are feeling tired or stressed: Caring for family members can be demanding, and taking a break helps prevent burnout and protects your health.
- You have an emergency: If you suddenly become ill or face an unexpected event, emergency respite care can provide fast support to your loved one.
You need to travel: Going on holiday or attending important family events is possible when respite care services step in. - Your loved one needs social interaction: Some people enjoy the company and activities available through centre-based respite or day centres.
You need support during recovery: After surgery or illness, a carer may need time to heal while respite care ensures continuous support.
If you’re looking for trusted and compassionate respite care services, you can find professional home respite and community respite care customised to your needs.
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to types of respite care. Each type is designed for different needs and situations. In this guide, we’ll explore these types in detail so you can choose the one that works best for you and your loved one.
1. In-Home Respite Care
In-home respite care means a trained support worker comes to your home to look after your loved one while you take a break. The big advantage is that your loved one stays in a familiar environment, which can reduce stress or confusion — especially for people with dementia, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities.
When it’s useful:
- If your loved one feels most comfortable at home.
- If travelling to another place is difficult due to health or mobility issues.
- If you need a short break but don’t want to disrupt their routine.
What it includes:
The carer can help with:
- Personal care (bathing, dressing, eating)
- Medication management
- Light housework
- Companionship and conversation
- Gentle exercise or short walks
2. Centre-Based Day Respite
Your loved one spends the day at a day centre or community care centre where trained staff provide care and activities. This option offers both care and social interaction.
When it’s useful:
- If your loved one enjoys socialising and meeting new people.
- If they benefit from structured activities.
- If you need a break during working hours.
What it includes:
These centres often have programs like:
- Arts and crafts
- Music and games
- Exercise or gentle movement classes
- Group outings
- Meals and personal care
3. Residential Respite Care
Your loved one stays at an aged care home, disability care facility, or short-term accommodation for several days or weeks. This type is ideal for longer breaks and offers full-time support.
When it’s useful:
- If you are going on holiday.
- If you are recovering from illness or surgery.
- If you need an extended break to recharge.
What it includes:
Residential respite care offers:
- 24/7 care
- Meals and snacks
- Medication and medical support
- Social activities and entertainment
- Assistance with all daily tasks
4. Emergency Respite Care
Emergency respite care is short-term care arranged quickly when unexpected events happen.
When it’s useful:
- If you suddenly become sick.
- If there’s a family emergency.
- If your work requires urgent travel.
What it includes:
It can be provided at home, in a centre, or in a residential facility, depending on what’s available and your loved one’s needs.
5. Overnight Respite Care
Overnight respite care provides care during the night so you can rest or attend personal events.
When it’s useful:
- If your loved one needs frequent help at night.
- If you have an event or need to travel overnight.
- If you simply need uninterrupted sleep.
What it includes:
Overnight carers can help with:
- Toileting assistance
- Night-time medication
- Mobility support
- Monitoring and safety checks
6. Community Access Respite
This type involves taking your loved one out into the community for social, recreational, or cultural activities.
When it’s useful:
- If your loved one enjoys outings.
- If they benefit from staying active and socially connected.
- If you want them to have fun experiences while you take a break.
What it includes:
Activities might include:
- Visiting parks, museums, or markets
- Going to cafes or restaurants
- Attending community events
7. Family or Friend Respite
Family or friend respite means a family member, neighbour, or friend steps in to care for your loved one.
When it’s useful:
- If you need a short break and have someone you trust.
- If your loved one feels more comfortable with familiar faces.
What it includes:
This type of respite can be informal and flexible. The person helping might provide meals, companionship, and help with basic needs.
8. Virtual or Remote Respite (Emerging Option)
Support is provided online or over the phone to keep your loved one engaged while you take a break at home.
When it’s useful:
- If travel or in-person care is difficult.
- If your loved one enjoys online interaction.
- If you only need short breaks or want to care for a few hours during the day.
What it includes:
- Online activities and games.
- Virtual social groups.
- Video calls with trained companions.
Choosing the Right Type for Your Situation
When deciding on the type of respite care, including NDIS respite care or other respite services, consider:
- Your loved one’s comfort level — Do they prefer familiar surroundings or enjoy new places?
- The level of care they need — Are their needs basic or complex?
- Your budget and available funding — Can you access government support?
- The length of the break or periods of time you require — Do you need care for a few hours, days, or weeks?
It’s perfectly fine to try more than one type before deciding what works best. Some carers even use a mix — for example, in-home respite during the week and day centre programs on weekends.
How Much Does Respite Care Cost?
Some respite care services are free, while others may need you to pay all or part of the cost. The price depends on things like your situation, the type of care you get, how long you stay, and which service you use.
If you get community-based respite care, it might be paid for by the government through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme. If you can afford it, you may be asked to pay a small part of the cost.
If you use residential respite care in an aged care home, you usually need to pay a daily fee and sometimes a booking fee. The highest daily fee for respite care is about 85% of the age pension.
Funding and Support
In Australia, respite care may be funded through:
- National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) — for eligible disability participants.
- My Aged Care — for older Australians.
- Local council or charity programs — sometimes offer free or low-cost options.
- Private payment — if you want flexibility in choosing providers.
Always check your eligibility and speak to a care coordinator if you’re unsure.
Final Thoughts
Respite care is not a luxury — it’s a necessity for every carer. Whether it’s a few hours at home, a full day at a community centre, or a week-long residential stay, the right type of respite can help you recharge while ensuring your loved one is safe and cared for.
By understanding the different types, you can make an informed choice that supports both your needs and theirs. Remember — taking a break is part of being a good carer. It allows you to return to your role with renewed patience, energy, and love. If you’re ready to find trustworthy, personalised respite care tailored to your family’s needs, contact Urcare and Support Services today.
Take the first step to care for yourself while caring for others.
