Dementia Respite Care: A Break That Benefits Everyone
Caring for a loved one with dementia is a journey marked by love, devotion, and moments of deep fatigue. As the responsibilities of caregiving grow, so does the emotional and physical toll it can take. At times, stepping away for rest, travel, or personal wellness becomes not only important but essential. Dementia respite care offers families the ability to do just that.
At Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living, our respite services in Brookfield, WI, provide families with short-term, personalized care within a supportive, safe, and enriching community. It is a break that offers healing, trust, and peace of mind for everyone involved.
What Is Dementia Respite Care?
Dementia respite care refers to temporary, short-term care provided to individuals living with dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease. It gives primary caregivers the opportunity to take a much needed break while knowing their loved one is being supported by experienced care providers. At Lakewood, respite care is available for a minimum stay of two weeks. This allows your loved one time to settle into a gentle routine, enjoy planned activities, and feel secure in a consistent and nurturing environment.
During a respite stay, your loved one receives the same personalized support as our full-time residents. That includes medication management, bathing assistance, nutritious meals, emotional engagement, and holistic wellness programs that help them feel known and cared for.
Why Respite Care Matters for Families and Caregivers
Respite care serves a dual purpose. It gives caregivers the space to rest, attend to their own needs, and take care of their health, while also giving individuals living with dementia a structured, stimulating, and compassionate place to receive care. Without time for restoration, caregivers can experience burnout and isolation. Respite care restores balance and helps you return to your caregiving journey with renewed energy and clarity.
It also supports older adults by giving them opportunities to engage socially, take part in meaningful programs, and form new connections in a safe environment. At Lakewood, we believe respite is not only helpful but transformative for families.
What Makes Lakewood's Care Providers Exceptional
At the heart of our dementia respite care program is a deeply committed and trained team. Our leadership includes an Executive Director, Health Services Director, and Life Enrichment Director who work closely with care providers to ensure that every person receives individual attention. Each team member completes a background check and receives training in dementia care, so your loved one is supported by professionals who understand the unique needs of those living with memory conditions.
We prioritize consistency and trust. From personal care like grooming and dressing to health monitoring and medication assistance, every service is delivered with compassion and dignity.
A Holistic Approach to Respite Services
The care we provide during a respite stay reflects the same enriching and purposeful lifestyle offered to full-time residents. Our community focuses on emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Each day includes opportunities for both quiet reflection and joyful interaction.
Residents take part in activities like devotional readings, nature crafts, armchair yoga, therapy dog visits, gardening, and musical hymns. These experiences encourage a sense of belonging and routine that can be incredibly grounding for individuals living with dementia.
We also offer nutritious, gourmet meals, quiet spaces for rest, and a sensory spa that helps reduce agitation, anxiety, and tension. Our goal is to provide respite that supports the whole person, not just their care needs.
The Role of Planned Activities and Social Connection
A central benefit of respite care at Lakewood is the opportunity for social engagement. Isolation can be a major concern for both caregivers and those receiving care. Planned activities allow individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences, and to enjoy moments of purpose and happiness throughout their day.
Whether participating in adult day enrichment or attending a dance social, residents enjoy a calendar of thoughtfully curated events designed for older adults. These activities are not simply for entertainment. They are tools for connection, memory stimulation, and emotional expression, especially for those living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Choosing the Right Respite Care Provider
When it comes to choosing respite care for a loved one living with dementia, families deserve a place that feels safe, compassionate, and trustworthy. At Lakewood, our community is built on a foundation of person-centered care, delivered by trained staff who are trained specifically in supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
From your first conversation with our team, you will experience clear communication, personalized guidance, and a genuine commitment to your loved one’s well-being. We encourage families to visit, meet our care providers, explore our community, and ask the questions that matter most. Every detail of our approach to respite services is designed to provide peace of mind and meaningful support for both you and your loved one.
How Lakewood Supports Individuals Living with Dementia
Our Montessori-based memory care program helps older adults maintain independence and connection by honoring their history, preferences, and abilities. During a respite stay, residents are encouraged to participate in both individual and group activities that reflect their personal interests and strengths.
We believe that individuals living with dementia deserve not only attentive care but also joy, dignity, and the ability to engage with life in meaningful ways. Whether taking part in sensory stimulation programs or joining friends for a courtyard game of ball toss, your loved one will receive care that uplifts and supports every aspect of their life.
When to Consider Respite Care
Families may choose respite care during a vacation, medical recovery, or a time when caregiving responsibilities become overwhelming. Even when no specific event is occurring, respite can provide much needed relief and support. It offers caregivers time to focus on their own wellness or reconnect with other loved ones.
Respite care at Lakewood gives individuals time to feel comfortable, participate in enriching activities, and experience the warmth of a supportive community. This thoughtful approach encourages trust, consistency, and meaningful engagement throughout their visit.
A Compassionate Break That Strengthens Care
Respite care is not a pause in care. It is a continuation of it in a new setting filled with intention, safety, and compassion. It strengthens caregivers by offering rest and space. It supports individuals with dementia by giving them structure, warmth, and connection. At Lakewood, every respite experience is designed with the highest level of personal care, engagement, and respect.
If you are considering respite care for a loved one, we welcome you to explore our community and learn more about what we offer. Respite at Lakewood is more than a service. It is a partnership with families and a commitment to life-affirming care.
Contact us today to schedule a tour and learn more about our dementia respite care services and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the minimum stay for respite care at Lakewood?
Respite care at Lakewood requires a minimum stay of two weeks. This helps create a smooth and supportive experience for both the individual and the care team.
2. How do I know if respite care is right for my loved one?
If your loved one is living with dementia and you find yourself needing time to rest, attend to work, focus on your own family, or recover from illness, respite care can be a supportive option that benefits everyone involved.
3. Do you offer emergency respite services?
Yes, Lakewood can accommodate emergency respite needs when possible. Our team is available to talk through timing, care plans, and next steps during urgent situations.
4. What should I bring for a respite stay?
We recommend bringing comfortable clothing, any necessary medications, personal items that help your loved one feel at home, and documentation of care preferences.
5. What makes Lakewood different from nursing facilities or home health options?
Lakewood provides a dedicated memory care and assisted living environment with trained staff, personalized care, and a full calendar of activities. Unlike traditional nursing facilities or a home health aide, our community offers an immersive and enriching experience tailored for individuals living with dementia.