What is Overnight Care?
Most older Australians today prefer to remain in their own homes rather than move into a nursing home or residential care facility. In-home care services and government-funded Home Care Packages (HCP) make that possible, and often, care plans need to provide 360-degree support to ensure care recipients are safe and comfortable in every facet of life.
Overnight care services—sometimes referred to as sleepover support services—are a critical part of the process, particularly for family members and loved ones who have taken on a caregiving role for an elder.
It’s no secret that consistently getting up overnight to care for someone can be exhausting. Carer burnout in Australia is a pressing issue, and loss of sleep has a serious impact on the health and happiness of unpaid carers across the country.
It’s also true that some older people face increased risks at nighttime, especially with falling due to diminished vision or disorientation. Trip hazards throughout the home can heighten the likelihood of accidents, and falls can result in weeks or months of hospitalisation and rehabilitation.
With The CareSide, overnight care services begin with a free consultation. During this consultation, one of our skilled registered nurses assesses the care recipient for fall risk and the home for trip hazards.
Our recommendations for practical solutions—such as safety rails—can minimise the risk of overnight accidents. However, professional overnight care might be necessary for families seeking additional assistance and peace of mind.