Seema Rajesh Rao1,2,3, Mayank Gupta4, Naveen Salins4,5. 1. Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Tiger Circle Road, Madhav Nagar, Manipal, Udupi District, Karnataka, 576104, India. uskpsy69@gmail.com. 2. APHN Palliative Medicine Consultant for Lien Collaborative for Palliative Care, Singapore, Singapore. uskpsy69@gmail.com. 3. Honorary Tutor, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK. uskpsy69@gmail.com. 4. Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Tiger Circle Road, Madhav Nagar, Manipal, Udupi District, Karnataka, 576104, India. 5. Honorary Tutor, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: The definition of respite care remains unclear and its purpose and effectiveness are unproven till date. This paper reviews the current evidence regarding definition and efficacy of respite care, as well as the different programs, models, and interventions employed to deliver the same. RECENT FINDINGS: A scoping search identified the relevant literature to be included in the review. The current evidence reiterates the lack of clarity in defining and delineating the purpose of respite care. Recent empirical evidence supports the effectiveness of respite care with clear benefits for the carers, patients, their families, and the healthcare system. Along with inpatient, home, and hospice care, respite care is considered as an essential component of palliative care. Evidence, although weak, supports the efficacy of respite care. High-quality studies with clear outlining of the scope of the services and resolution of ambiguities pertaining to its definition are warranted to fill the gaps in knowledge.
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: The definition of respite care remains unclear and its purpose and effectiveness are unproven till date. This paper reviews the current evidence regarding definition and efficacy of respite care, as well as the different programs, models, and interventions employed to deliver the same. RECENT FINDINGS: A scoping search identified the relevant literature to be included in the review. The current evidence reiterates the lack of clarity in defining and delineating the purpose of respite care. Recent empirical evidence supports the effectiveness of respite care with clear benefits for the carers, patients, their families, and the healthcare system. Along with inpatient, home, and hospice care, respite care is considered as an essential component of palliative care. Evidence, although weak, supports the efficacy of respite care. High-quality studies with clear outlining of the scope of the services and resolution of ambiguities pertaining to its definition are warranted to fill the gaps in knowledge.
Entities:
Keywords:
Caregiver break; Caregiver burden; Informal carers; Palliative care; Respite care; Short break care