Is there such a thing as short term 24 hr in home care for 2 weeks? My wife is bed bound. I am approaching burnout and would like to take a break. There are no family members that can help. Facilities are not an option because of bad experiences. I can not afford a fortune.
But those experiences are in the past and realistically and logically have no bearing on what would happen in a different facility with different people at a different time.
Please don’t limit yourself in this way. Seek care in every available option. You deserve a break! I hope you find it.
What happens if one of the temporary caregivers doesn't show up for their shift, or has a sick day? Or walks off the job because it's too hard, etc. Would your lovely wife be left all alone until you find out about it?
People seem to be quite unreliable these days.
Any chance you could arrange a shorter break with her in a NH for a few days? 3 - 5 days is better than none. And would be more affordable than 2 whole weeks.
I used to be the only Caregiver for a bed bound parent 24/7, so I understand how hard this is to be able to arrange and afford.
Your options are:
- hire individual persons directly (private hire). This is probably the least expensive option *however* this means you will have to do your own background check and take all the risks (liability from injury in your home, accident, etc). You're basically inviting a stranger into your home and who knows if they can do what they tout about themselves. You can consider soliticing for someone on Nextdoor.com, which is an intranet of your actual neighbors. You can consider contacting a nursing school to see if any upper classmen are interested in a short-term gig (although the 24 hr thing will be tricky).
- hire through an agency. The hourly rates will be higher but the aids will be vetted and may have more true experience. However, it is a lot of effort to go to for just a 2-week stint. They would provide subs if necessary, and cover liability and take accountability for problems. Most have a review process (filling out forms, an interview, etc).
If your wife is bed-bound, she is probably a candidate for LTC. In most states, LTC is what Medicaid can cover (along with one's SS). You should consider callling social services for your county to discuss options and the application with a social worker. You may even qualify for some in-home services.
You can also contact your local Area Agency on Aging to find Respite Care providers.
Call some of the agencies and you are looking at 35/40 an hour. Get someone you know and trust and you are likely looking at 20.00 an hour which is what my friend paid in her last days in home Hospice care. It was horrifically expensive at best.
I think respite might be a bit better.
Is Medicaid involved for you, or only Medicare? Because the former will provide some care, tho not 24/7.
I will ask you to call some places in your area, perhaps visiting angels and they may be able to guide you a bit. I honestly hope you'll return and tell us what you find out in care available, vetting of caregivers, and costs.
Sure wish you good luck.