Guild Care’s respite and convalescent care gives peace of mind

Guild Care provides short-term stays, offering carers a break, or a supportive environment for people to convalesce in following an operation, injury or illness.

Caring for a loved one can be demanding and stressful. We all deserve an occasional break but even more so when such responsibilities are on the table. That is where a respite stay in a care home can help, giving carers time to themselves while knowing their loved one is safe and secure.

Worthing charity Guild Care offers a range of short-term care, usually ranging from one to six weeks, although longer stays can be negotiated. These stays can be booked up to 12 months in advance. If space is available, they can also be provided at short notice in emergencies.

Short-term visitors at one of the charity’s three care homes live well, enjoying 24/7 care, homemade food and charming landscaped gardens. The homes can be a social environment, too, with visitors being welcome to join in with the daily activities and make new friends – although, those preferring peace and quiet are also more than welcome to stay in their comfortable rooms.

Cat Walsh, head of quality and customer services at Guild Care, said: “Recently we’ve had an increase in calls from families who have seen their loved one rapidly decline. One example is of a lady who was driving, shopping and active but since lockdown, has become isolated, withdrawn, was not eating or drinking properly and became forgetful, as her daily structure had gone. There was a really significant decline.”

The family was concerned about their mum’s wellbeing and talked to Guild Care about the care options available.

Cat added: “We were able to offer a couple of weeks’ respite to get mum back on her feet. The great thing about respite in a care home is that you know you will get 24/7 care support, three good nutritious meals a day, as well as social interaction with others.

“Respite also gives the carers breathing space to arrange extra care packages and specialist equipment that may now be needed, all with a view to getting their loved one back home.

“Sometimes, though, a short stay could see that person feeling really settled and happy in the home, so it can be a taster as well to see if a this could be a permanent stay in the future.”

Short-term stays can also function as convalescence. Convalescent care allows someone to be looked after while recovering from an operation, injury or illness.

Alan Lee, who had a stroke several years ago, is currently convalescing at Caer Gwent following a fall.

He said: “I was a bit apprehensive when they said I was going into a care home but it’s just wonderful. It’s like staying in a hotel – beautiful surroundings, great food and I just feel so much better.

“The staff and management are all very friendly, caring and professional and they have put me back together.”

Guild Care offers respite and convalescence in all three of its Worthing care homes, two of which facilitate residents with dementia. If you would like further information, please call the customer service team on 01903 327327 or email [email protected].