The transition day—between the arrival of the respite worker in your home and your departure for the respite period—is an important time for building mutual trust. Your presence helps your loved one to accept someone they didn't know. The respite worker will also use this day to find her bearings and gather all the information you give her about your loved one. A discussion of living habits, shopping, food, visitors and so on is highly recommended.
Food
You don’t have to prepare every meal in advance. The respite worker takes on this task and cooks according to your loved one’s tastes and habits.
Respite worker's bed
You’ll need to provide a bed for the respite worker to rest on. Alternatively, she can bring her own air mattress.
CLSC services, day centre, daytime respite care
We ask you not to interrupt regular CLSC services, attendance at the day centre or regular respite care periods. This will ensure that your loved one's daily routine is maintained, and avoid destabilizing him or her. Our respite worker, like you, can take advantage of this time to cook meals, do the laundry or run errands. She can also sleep if she’s been up all night.