When you’re caring for an elderly parent or partner, it’s natural to need a break. Respite care provides that essential time off — but many people don’t realise they have two very different options:
- In-home respite care, where a trained carer supports your loved one in their own home.
- Facility-based respite care, which usually involves moving your loved one into a rest home or hospital for short-term support.
If you live in Christchurch or Tauranga, understanding the difference could save you time, stress, and money. Here’s what you need to know.
Option 1: Facility-Based Respite Care
Most large aged care providers in NZ — such as Summerset, Ryman, Bupa, and Healthcare NZ — offer respite stays in their facilities.
This might mean your loved one temporarily lives in a rest home, hospital wing, or retirement village unit while you take time off.
Pros |
Cons |
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24/7 nursing support (if medically required) |
Limited availability — bookings often needed weeks or months in advance |
|
Access to on-site amenities |
Can be distressing or disorienting for the elderly |
|
Some government-funded places may be available |
Strict routines, shared rooms, and less personalised care |
|
Often not suitable for post-hospital recovery at home |
📚 Further reading: NZ Ministry of Health – Residential Care Subsidy
Option 2: In-Home Respite Care
This is where a qualified carer visits your loved one’s home — whether for a few hours, overnight, or several days. It’s ideal if your parent prefers familiar surroundings or needs support post-surgery.
At Home Carers, we offer this service across Christchurch and Tauranga, with flexible bookings and no facility move required.
Pros |
Cons |
|
No need to move or pack belongings |
Not suitable for high-dependency medical needs (e.g. ventilators or IVs) |
|
Reduced stress for your parent |
You’ll need to share care details in advance (which we help with!) |
|
Flexible hours, even on short notice |
|
|
One-on-one attention |
|
|
Great for clients with dementia, frailty, or recent surgery |
📰 Real story: “Carer Shortage Leaves Families Desperate for At-Home Help” – NZ Herald
Which Option Is Right for You?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use in-home respite care after a hospital stay?
Absolutely. In fact, post-discharge support is one of the top reasons families in Christchurch and Tauranga call us. We help clients recover in familiar surroundings.
Q: Is in-home respite care only available during the day?
No — we offer morning, evening, overnight, or weekend care. You choose the schedule that works for your family.
Q: What if I don’t know what support my parent needs?
We offer a free, friendly chat and simple Wellness Checks to help you plan the right care.
Conclusion: Comfort, Flexibility & Compassion at Home
Both options can offer relief — but if you’re looking for flexibility, comfort, and compassionate one-on-one support, in-home respite care might be the better fit.
Whether you’re managing burnout, going away for the weekend, or helping your loved one recover post-hospital, Home Carers is here to help.
📞 Call us today on 0800 227 686 or
💻 Book your respite care now
