Respite care is now also frequently referred to as a 'short-term break'. People in need of respite care are not necessarily concerned about what the break is called - a short break, a respite or just help and support in the home. What they are after is something to give them a rest from the usual routine of caring and being cared for.

Respite care can be provided in the person's own home, in a care home, hospice, in a day centre, or other facility. Some homes and organisations provide a range of respite care services.

It can be a good opportunity to provide rehabilitation for the person with MS and increasingly, providers offer rehabilitation, and also complementary therapies.

Some of the different types are outlined below:

• Planned respite: Providing planned opportunities for the person with MS in a residential setting in order that they and their carer can enjoy different activities.



• Emergency respite: Provision of care at short notice, either in the home or a residential setting.



• Respite care at home: Providing support in the home, or in the home of a substitute carer. 



• Holiday respite: Annual short breaks for the person with MS, sometimes with the carer.

» How do I go about getting respite care?