When you’re the main caregiver for your elderly parent, taking a break can feel impossible — or even selfish. But respite care isn’t about abandoning your responsibility. It’s about recharging so you can continue to care well.
The good news? In-home respite care is easier to arrange than you might think — especially in Christchurch and Tauranga where options like Home Carers offer flexible, short-notice support.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to organising in-home respite care without adding to your stress levels.
Step 1: Know When It’s Time for a Break
If you’re:
- Feeling burnt out, emotionally drained, or physically exhausted
- Experiencing resentment, guilt, or sleep issues
- Recovering from your own illness or injury
- Juggling work, parenting, and caregiving roles
…then it’s time to consider respite care.
A recent NZ Herald article highlighted that over 1 in 5 carers in New Zealand feel overwhelmed, especially when balancing their own health and responsibilities.
Step 2: Choose a Trusted Provider
When it comes to in-home care, trust and experience are critical. Look for a provider that:
- Has experienced and vetted carers
- Offers flexible bookings (short notice, hourly or overnight)
- Provides support tailored to your parent’s needs
- Services your location (e.g. Christchurch or Tauranga)
Step 3: Talk to Your Parent (If Possible)
This step can be tricky. Older people may be resistant to the idea of “outside help” or feel like they’re being a burden. Try:
- Framing it as your need, not their fault (“I just need a few days to rest so I can keep doing my best”)
- Reassuring them it’s temporary
- Letting them meet the carer beforehand
- Involving them in the planning process
If your parent has dementia, a more gentle, familiar introduction is helpful. You can find support via Alzheimers NZ.
Step 4: Understand the Funding and Cost
You may be eligible for government support through:
- Carer Support Subsidy (from Te Whatu Ora)
- Needs Assessment via NASC (Disability Support Services)
Or, you can privately pay for respite care — especially if you want short-term help at home while public services are delayed.
Step 5: Plan the Support Schedule
You don’t have to commit to weeks of care right away.
Examples of flexible respite care:
- Morning support (e.g. helping with showering and breakfast)
- Overnight support if you’re going away
- Post-hospital recovery for Mum or Dad
- Wellness checks to ensure medication is taken and meals are eaten
- Daily companion visits for those with mild dementia or loneliness
Step 6: Set Expectations and Prepare the Home
Your carer will need some basic info:
- A list of medications
- Meal preferences
- Emergency contacts
- Notes on mobility or cognitive issues
Keep everything clearly labelled and easy to find. If your loved one is forgetful, placing reminders (sticky notes or a short daily schedule) around the house can help.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Break — Guilt-Free
You are not abandoning your parent. You are protecting your own well-being so you can continue caring with compassion. Taking a break is a strength, not a weakness.
Use the time to:
- Rest
- See friends
- Book your own health appointments
- Reconnect with hobbies or simply sleep
Respite care isn’t just about your needs — it ensures your parent gets fresh energy, support, and interaction, too.
Ready to Book Respite Care?
Home Carers supports families across Christchurch and Tauranga with:
- Short-notice, flexible bookings
- Compassionate, experienced carers
- A smooth, stress-free process from the first call
Call us today on 0800 227 686 or learn more here.