Respite At Home

Respite At Home

I recently participated in a workshop titled “Respite in Place”.  The class walked us through the steps to create a space for caregivers to respite.  Caregivers often have a lot on their plate. They are responsible for taking care of other people and making sure that their needs are met. Caregivers need to have a space of their own where they can relax and unwind. This space can be used to de-stress and recharge. It is important for caregivers to have a place where they feel comfortable and can be themselves.

I created a couple of spaces in my home.  One is where I can go and read, sip a glass of wine, be creative or simply watch a movie in peace.  My other space is where I can stretch, get on my treadmill, lift weights, and sweat.  These two spaces are incredibly important to me.   I have respite services but they are not always available when I need them so some days I have “respite in place”. 

When creating your own space for your respite time consider these things: 

1.  Location:  where can you carve out a space to call your own?  My first space is an office upstairs.  My second space is in the basement.
2. Color:  I have a few pieces of the color orange because it’s my favorite color and it makes me happy.  Choose your happy color or a color that’s peaceful for you.
3. Walls:  Fill your walls with whatever makes you happy.  My walls have family pictures, calendars, to-do lists, and family certificates of accomplishments.
4. Furniture:  I have a desk, bookshelves, and a chaise lounge.  My room is designed for one.  My second space has gym equipment.
5. Windows:  Choose whatever allows the sun to shine.
6. Goodies:  If you are a reader, fill the room with books, magazines, and journals. Love wine?  How about a space for wine and a nice glass?  If you like watching tv, put one on a stand so you can catch up on your favorite shows.  Go big with your favorite goodies, this is your space caregiver.

Whatever and wherever you choose to create your space make sure to make it your own.  You matter and you give so much of yourself.  You deserve your own space.