Caring for the carer: Respite options that let you rest and recharge

It’s impossible to pour from an empty cup — and when you’re caring for an elderly parent or loved one, it can quickly run dry. If you’re trying to balance work, family and your carer duties, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Respite care offers a chance to recharge while knowing your loved one is in good hands. 

What respite care really looks like

At HillView Care, we offer respite care for seniors so carers can take a break. It’s also a great way for your loved ones to experience life at our Gold Coast aged care homes if they plan on transitioning into residential care sometime in the future. 

Respite care isn’t about taking a break from your loved one, it’s about sharing the care and giving yourself time to rest. Taking that time helps you return with more energy and patience, ensuring the care you give continues to be filled with the same love and quality your loved one deserves.

At HillView Care, we have respite options at both our Ashmore and Merrimac aged care homes. We provide a warm, caring environment where our respite residents are treated to the same level of care as our residential aged care residents. 

Respite options

There are a few options available for respite care at our Gold Coast aged care homes. We’ll work with you to find the best solution and provide you with the time you need. 

Whether you need a few days to rest, a few weeks while travelling, or want to give your parent or loved one a gentle introduction to aged care, there are flexible respite options to suit your needs. 

Short-term stays are perfect for quick breaks or carer recovery, and longer stays provide ongoing care, social connection, and routine when life gets too busy. Many families also choose respite as a comfortable trial before transitioning to permanent care, giving loved ones the chance to experience our welcoming community firsthand.

What quality care looks like

We believe respite care is much more than just providing a place for your loved one to stay while you take a break. It’s more about creating moments of comfort, connection, and happiness. Imagine your loved one sharing a friendly morning tea, painting alongside our lifestyle team, or relaxing in our beautiful gardens, all while receiving compassionate care you’d expect from a premium Gold Coast aged care home. 

Our respite guests enjoy:

• 24/7 nursing and clinical support.
• Chef-prepared, nutritious meals made fresh on-site.
• Engaging lifestyle activities tailored to their interests.
• A real sense of community and belonging.

You can be sure that every respite resident is cared for with the same warmth and respect as our permanent residents, everyone is part of our community.

How to know when it’s time for respite?

Wondering how you know when it’s time for respite? Here are a few signs: 

• You’re feeling emotionally or physically exhausted.
• You’re recovering from an illness or surgery. 
• Your loved one could benefit from a change of scenery or more social interaction. 
• You’re going on holiday or feel like you need some time alone. 

It’s important to remember that taking a break doesn’t mean you’re failing, it means you care enough to take time out to rejuvenate and continue to give the best care possible. 

How HillView Care makes respite easy

When it comes to respite care, it’s important that the process is simple. This allows you to keep focusing on what matters the most, the care of your loved one. It starts with a quick enquiry, followed by a personalised care plan and a warm welcome for your loved one.

Our friendly team can help with assessments and explain respite funding through Home Care Packages or My Aged Care. We think the transition from home to respite and back again should be smooth, so we do everything we can to help. Our communities in Ashmore and Merrimac will ensure your loved one feels comfortable and cared for, even during a short respite stay.

Respite care – take a break

Everyone needs a break sometimes, even carers. Choosing respite care gives you time to rest and recharge, knowing your loved one is cared for. At HillView Care, we make it easy, comfortable and supportive for both of you. Whether it’s for a few days or a few weeks, our team at Ashmore and Merrimac is here to help you take that well-earned break and come back refreshed. Contact us to learn more.