What is integrated continuous care and how can I access carer respite?

Someone mentioned integrated continuous care and respite admissions for carers, but I don't quite understand what it is or how to apply.

If you've never heard of integrated continuous care, you're not alone. It's often one of the lesser-known supports for family carers, despite being able to make a huge difference in your life. It's worth understanding how it works, because the rest you're entitled to might be more within reach than you imagine.

What is Integrated Continuous Care?

Integrated continuous care refers to a coordinated network of health and social support services for people in dependent situations, including those with dementia. Among its provisions is often the possibility of short-term admissions for convalescence or carer respite, allowing for a period (e.g., up to 90 days per year) where your family member is cared for in a dedicated unit with appropriate professional care, while you, the carer, regain your strength.

What is Carer Respite For?

• Physical recovery: Giving your body time to rest from months or years of intensive care.
• Attending to personal matters: Catching up on postponed medical appointments, professional, or family issues.
• Preventing burnout: Used preventatively, this rest can help avoid reaching a point of total exhaustion.
• Ensuring quality care for your family member: The person being cared for receives professional support during the admission period.

How to Access It

• Integrated Continuous Care Teams: If your family member is already supported by a continuous care team at a health centre, you can submit your request there.
• Hospital discharge teams: If your family member is or has been admitted to a hospital, this team can often refer you for access to continuous care services.
• Speak to your treating doctor first: They can guide you on the most appropriate entry point for your specific situation.

"I didn't know I could request an admission just for me to rest. When I finally did, I realised how exhausted I was. I returned calmer and with more patience than I'd had in months."

Resources and Support

You can obtain more information and guidance on the next steps by contacting your local health and social services or your national health helpline. Remember that asking for this respite is not giving up on caring; it is your right and a way to ensure you remain capable of providing quality care, both for yourself and for the person you care for.