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What are respite services? They are short term, temporary care for people with disabilities so their families can take a break from the daily routine of care giving to avoid burnout which can include overnight or for an extended period of time.

 

We can all agree being a caregiver can leave you feeling depleted and sad when you feel like you're missing out on activities you used to enjoy or see other people enjoying. Parents need to spend time alone or do the things they used to before the kids were born. Parents who are coordinating services of their young adults need days off just like if they were working a traditional job. Parents of people with severe intellectual disabilities especially need time off to recoup their energy and lessen stress levels.

 

It's so important to take care of ourselves so we feel at our best to keep caring for our loved ones. Not everyone has a supportive family to step in and help. Respite services are safe places you can leave your child/young adult or have them come into the home with specifically trained staff.

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Respite services should relieve the stress which otherwise could lead to abuse, neglect and chronic health problems of the caregiver. For some people like me, asking for help is really hard. A little time off now in regular intervals is much less than weeks, even months off due to a medical condition that requires intensive treatment and/or surgery.

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Respite can be dropping off your loved one for an afternoon, having someone come in overnight or having a exchange host family where you take turns watching each other's kids. Also setting up emergency respite services are important for short notice or unexpected emergencies.

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Providers:

Access Services

Where: 3975 Township Line Road, Bethlehem, PA 18020-4200

Call: 877.896.6667

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A New Direction What's Next

We offer a unique approach to care stringently dedicated to improving the lives of those we serve. We will provide innovative services that enhance their ability to live fulfilling lives in the community. We are committed to providing a person-centered approach to address the primary areas of human need.

Where: 7069 Hunt Drive, Macungie, PA 18062

Call: 610-421-8412

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Bayada Pediatrics Home Health Care

With your child’s medical needs and safety as our highest priority, we strive to build close relationships and trust, bring as much normalcy and peace of mind as possible, and help parents and siblings feel cared for and supported—just like a real family would do in times of need.

We will match your child with skilled and compassionate clinicians who are just right for your entire family.

Call: 610-776-7000

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Camelot School Year Programming

All Camelot children come one Sunday each month from 12noon – 3pm to enjoy fun activities with other Camelot kids and teen volunteers as their buddies.

Call 610-791-5683.

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Caring Grace Home Care Agency

Services: Offers social skills training sessions for children ages 3-12. This is a new program will build social skills and improve daily interactions with family members, peers and members of the community.

Where: 881 Third Street, Suite B-2, Whitehall, PA 18052

Call: 610-443-1850

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​Easter Seals Respite Services

Respite allows families and caregivers to enjoy a well-deserved break. Our program is designed to provide your loved one with a social and recreational experience, and provide you with a day to take care of other responsibilities, have fun or just recharge. We offer programs in Reading and the Lehigh Valley that run from September through May of each year.

Where: 1501 Lehigh Street, Suite 20, Allentown, PA 18103

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Special Recreation Services, Inc

Services: Monthly events throughout year for people in Northampton, Carbon, Pike, and Monroe counties. Recreation activities for adults with disabilities.

Where: PO Box 1031, Stroudsburg, PA 18360

Call: Debbie Smith, Director at 610-751-7692

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Caring Grace Home Care Agency

Professional caregivers that are trained to provide the best services for elderly and physically disabled clients. Staff is fluent in English/Spanish.

Where: 881 Third Street, Suite B-2, Whitehall, PA 18052

Call: 610-443-1850

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Sitter City-A website that will help you finding a sitter for your special needs child locally.

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Step By Step, Inc.

Services: Respite Services can be short term (hourly) or can be provided for one or multiple days (daily). The individual’s participation in community activities and day or employment services continues as normal while receiving respite services.

Where: 623 West Union Blvd, Bethlehem, PA 18018

Call: 610-867-0688

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If providers can't give you the respite you need, when you need it an you need to find a babysitter who is more flexible. This article will help you being to find the right person.

The Top 3 Challenges to Finding a Babysitter for Your Special Needs Child — and How to Overcome Them.​

 

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