Although many families take joy in providing care for their loved ones so that they can remain at home, caregiving for a family member can be overwhelming without some support, such as respite. Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers, allowing them time to travel, rest, or visit with other family and friends. The duration of this care varies from a few hours to a few weeks, depending on the caregiver's needs.

In November 2024, Pioneer Memorial Hospice received a grant of $7500 for caregiving respite care funds from the Roundhouse Foundation. The Roundhouse Foundation supports rural communities through its grant program, which focuses on four fundamental areas- arts & culture, environmental stewardship, social services, and education. The funds received by Pioneer Memorial Hospice will help provide hospice caregivers respite relief while continuing care for the patient in their own home.  

Hospice is a specialized care that comforts and supports patients and their families when curative treatment for advanced illness ends. Pioneer Memorial Hospice staff brings crucial medical and nursing care elements to the patient's residence and offers practical and emotional support for them and their families. These services are provided by trained professionals, including physicians, nurses, counselors, volunteers, and aides who comprise the hospice interdisciplinary team. 

Accepting help can be difficult, but studies have shown that respite helps sustain the health and wellness of the caregiver. Because of the Roundhouse Foundation grant, caregivers who may have been unable to pay for respite out-of-pocket can now seek respite care services and take comfort in knowing their loved one is safe and comfortable while they are away. To learn more about Hospice and respite care, click the links on this page or call (541) 676-2946.