Some care/rest homes in New Zealand may take a respite booking at short notice. They often indicate that they offer this service in their Eldernet listing. Whether or not they can take a short-term respite booking when you need it depends on:
- the availability of beds (the majority of homes don’t have dedicated respite beds); and
- if the facility has the required number of trained staff on to cater to the needs of the person.
While carers should plan to take regular breaks, unplanned events or emergencies can happen. If you are likely to use a respite service it pays to make a list of rest homes in your region that you know who provides respite care. (use Eldernet to help you) This will give you a few options if you want to use respite at short notice. You may like to visit them in advance to find the services that suit you best. Some may offer to take a future booking so that you get a planned break.
Updated: 1 Feb 2024