What is respite care?

Swarthmore offers Residential Care, End of Life Care and Respite Care. We also have 4 Assisted Living Flats within our grounds for anyone over 65 years.

What is respite care - the short answer: Respite care can be described as a short-term break for individuals caring for someone in need. This is also a good place to start when looking forward to long-term residential care. It is also seen as a trial period to see if long-term care is the right move. Respite care is also very helpful for the carer, it allows them to have time to rest themselves.

Swarthmore also has the provision to offer Assisted Living for those who still have the capacity to continue living with independence but want the assurance of someone on-site if an emergency occurs. This is another step towards accepting help; before you move to the next step of a residential home.

It is easy to feel unsettled as we venture into new surroundings or a new environment which means adapting to a new way of life. Whatever way you choose to adapt your lifestyle to suit your situation we will help you settle in with the hope that ‘change is for the better’.

What is the difference between respite and residential care?


Residential care is seen as a long term care solution, whereas respite care is for short term stays. Residential care on the other hand offers help with day-to-day items such as showering or dressing. A place where we can provide meals ensuring you have a nutritional diet, keep you hydrated and an environment where you can meet fellow residents for companionship.

A place you will make lots of friends including our staff. Swarthmore has three types of room which accommodate for various levels of budget and needs. Our care includes freshly prepared meals three times a day, around-the-clock care, Wi-Fi to all rooms, maintenance, laundry and housekeeping, activities, drinks and snacks throughout your day.

Decisions around future care are not easy decisions for anyone. It is common to feel a sense of guilt. We recommend listing the reasons and facts why you are considering a care home. Remember there are lots of positives that come out of these decisions! We provide 24-hour support for care needs, which is not always possible in your own home.

The social benefits of living in a care home are a huge welcome to most people. Isolation and loneliness are one of the big contenders of living alone, which can add to our state of health. Swarthmore provides two activities a day, which help anyone continue to enjoy time together or continue a lifelong hobby.

We have various social spaces to meet with fellow residents so you can chat the day away with a cuppa. Family and friends can visit you in your room or enjoy the great outdoor space we provide. The difference of being in a care home allows you to spend more quality time with your loved ones or friends as the atmosphere is more relaxed. You no longer have to worry about the stresses of carrying out care or leaving someone alone. We are often faced with an unexpected decision to move into a care home. Hospital admission due to a fall or a carer becoming ill and therefore no longer able to carry out care. This is sometimes the most difficult way of making the decision as we are not ready to do so but are left with no alternative. Preparing for situations when signs of concern are visible can easily be ignored. The easiest solution is to sit down and talk about them. Make a list, it helps. It can be reassuring for both of you when the time comes!

Questions that need to be considered when thinking about respite care:

● Is the person able to make a decision about their care, where to look and what to look for?

● Have you approached all areas of possible support to make a decision?

● Would some respite care or a short break help you make a decision?

● What would be the benefits for you or both of the people involved if they moved to a care home?

● In what ways might care staff be able to provide better care than you?

● Can I still be involved in my loved ones care plan?

● What makes them feel comfortable, safe and content? Does the care home you are considering tick the boxes?

● Is there someone you can discuss your feelings with?

● Has the person ever expressed any opinions about going into a care home?

● How do we deal with the changes?

Our assisted living flats give you independence with your own space. You can continue to cook for yourself in your own space. If you were feeling unwell or needed help you have the reassurance that we are very close by to assist you. We also provide housekeeping once a week and we check in on you every evening to make sure you are comfortable and safe. Having the reassurance that care is at hand is beneficial to those that can remain independent in their own space. The flats offer an open plan living space with a small kitchenette, walk-in wet room and storage space. Large gardens to enjoy the great outdoors. Parking space for those who drive or for their visitors. Thank you for reading our blog ‘What is respite care?’.

To discuss further or arrange a viewing please contact Sally on 01753 885663, Option 1 for new care enquiries