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Abstract
Respite care is a health service focused on the care giver of an identified client. It provides a temporary release from the responsibility of caring for a physically or emotionally dependent individual. Programs to serve the needs of care givers of the frail elderly evolved from respite-care programs developed to alleviate the stress on parents caring for developmentally disabled children at home (Hasselkus & Brown, 1983). Several assumptions and values underlie respite care. These programs allow many individuals to remain in the home setting, which is usually preferred and less costly than institutionalization. The periodic release from the physical and emotional pressures faced by care givers provided by respite care can serve to prevent "burnout" syndrome (Parkham, Hart, Newton, & Terraciano, 1983). Although many variables have been identified in elder abuse, the unrelieved burden of caring for a debilitated relative can be an important factor (Beck & Phillips, 1983; Hooyman, 1983). Respite care offers the care giver a temporary release from this strain. It also provides tangible assistance to individuals with limited support systems and serves to maintain family integrity.