Respite Care Books

The Midwest Book Review (April 2007) writes: Now in a newly and substantially revised and expanded third edition, "The Comfort of Home: A Complete Guide For Caregivers" continues to earn its reputation as the 'bible' for providing home caregivers to aged, ill or handicapped loved ones with a thoroughly 'user friendly' illustrated guide that covers everything necessary from daily living tasks to preparations for hospice care, to making funeral arrangements. This is a complete and superbly organized, 216-page, comprehensive 'how to manual that will help the caregiver to develop their skills, expertise, and confidence, which will in turn enhance their peace of mind with respect to the quality of life for the person they are caring for. [Vogel's Bookshelf - The Midwest Book Review, April 2007]

Reviewed by Cherie Fisher for Reader Views (8/07)

I was really impressed with the comprehensive material in this 3rd edition of "The Comfort of Home." As a Social Worker in a previous life, this would have been the book that I would have given to individuals who were considering becoming a primary caregiver. Nothing has been left out in this very well-written guide that a person needs to consider when undertaking this process.

"The Comfort of Home" is set up so that it can be read from beginning to end, or as a reference guide that a person can look up specifics. Oftentimes, taking on the task of a caregiver seems completely overwhelming. Meyer helps break the tasks down into manageable steps that include tips, questions that need to be asked and additional resources to follow up with. The author begins the book by helping the reader decide if home care is an option for them to consider. Her approach is honest and guilt-free for the person making this decision. Following this process, a person needs to decide what level of care is needed and whether this can be provided at home. I really thought that the section on paying for care through Medicare, Medicare part D, Medigap and the many other types of benefits was easy to follow.

As a proponent of long-term planning, I especially liked the section for setting up a care plan. Following these suggestions will make it easy to have someone step in as a temporary caregiver to give the primary caregiver a break, reporting to medical staff and in helping the caregiver not to make mistakes. Being a caregiver can be exhausting and keeping records on the patient, especially with important medication schedules. There are so many chapters that cover every aspect of a person's life such as exercise, diet, nutrition, special challenges and daily activities. Each area is thoughtfully addressed and ends with other available resources in dealing with that area.

The author does an excellent job throughout "The Comfort of Home" in reminding the caregiver to take care of themselves. She even includes a whole section on how to avoid burnout and ends with dealing with funeral arrangements and the grieving process. I would highly recommend this guide to anyone who is considering becoming a caregiver.