Caring for a loved one can be one of life’s most meaningful responsibilities, But it can also be one of the most demanding…
Whether you’re looking after an ageing parent, a family member with a disability, or someone with complex health needs, the emotional, physical and mental toll of caregiving can become overwhelming without the right support.
That’s where respite care comes in—a vital service that offers temporary relief for primary caregivers, helping sustain long-term care arrangements and protect the wellbeing of both carers and those they care for.
Why respite care matters
Respite care isn’t just a break for the carer. It’s an essential part of a sustainable care plan. Research shows that ongoing, unsupported caregiving is associated with high levels of stress, burnout, depression, and even chronic health issues among carers (National Institutes of Health, 2022).
According to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, respite care has been proven to improve carers’ mental health and quality of life. It allows caregivers to rest, attend to their own needs, and return to their role feeling refreshed and better able to provide quality support (Leggett et al., 2022).
Meanwhile, for the person receiving care, well-delivered respite can be a positive experience. It introduces new interactions, routines, and social opportunities—often improving mood and promoting independence.
Respite care at home: a more comfortable alternative
While traditional respite options often involve temporary stays in residential facilities, many families are now choosing home-based respite care. Services delivered in the home are not only more comfortable and less disruptive, but also more flexible—ranging from a few hours to several days, depending on individual needs.
With Vitalis Health’s Home Care services, families can access safe, reliable, and person-centred respite care in their own home, backed by 24/7 clinical oversight and a familiar care team. It’s a way of ensuring your loved one receives the highest standard of care, while you take the time to rest, recharge or attend to other life responsibilities.
👉 Learn more about Vitalis Home Care
Supporting people with disabilities through the NDIS
For people living with disability and their families, respite is especially important. It can provide short-term support that strengthens independence, reduces stress, and improves long-term outcomes.
Under the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), respite care may be available under Core Supports as part of short-term accommodation, or through personal care supports and nursing services at home.
At Vitalis, we offer flexible NDIS-funded home care supports, including:
- 🩺 In-home nursing care: For complex medical needs, medication management, wound care and more
- 💧 Personal care supports: Including assistance with hygiene, mobility, meals and daily activities
- 🏡 Regular or ad hoc respite services for NDIS participants and their families
With a compassionate and skilled team, Vitalis tailors support plans to each person’s needs – ensuring both continuity of care and peace of mind for families.
Benefits of respite care with Vitalis Health
Choosing Vitalis for your respite care needs comes with a range of benefits:
✅ Continuity and familiarity – Care is provided by a consistent, trusted team
✅ Flexible, short- or long-term options – From a few hours to overnight stays
✅ 24/7 clinical oversight – Supporting safe, high-quality care at all times
✅ NDIS-compliant services – Making it easier to access funded support
✅ A holistic, person-centred approach – Focusing on health, comfort and dignity
A healthier way to care
Respite care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a full-time carer or occasionally support someone you love, taking breaks is essential to maintaining your own wellbeing. With the right respite in place, families can continue to care with confidence, strength and compassion.
At Vitalis, we believe in care that honours relationships, respects individual needs, and supports everyone involved. Whether you’re seeking support through Home Care or the NDIS, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and discover how respite care can make all the difference.
👉 Explore Vitalis Home Care Services
👉 Learn about NDIS Nursing Supports
👉 Explore NDIS Personal Care
Sources:
- Leggett A, Polenick C, Maust D, et al. (2022). “Effects of Respite Services on Caregiver Outcomes: A Review of Recent Literature”. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 19(7):4211. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9052870/
- Australian Government – Carer Gateway. Benefits of respite care. https://www.carergateway.gov.au/respite-care
