Lottie Stewart Hospital
Huntington's Disease: Respite Care
Respite Care in the Huntington Unit provides short-term care in a specialist unit for assessment of Huntington Disease changes or to enable carers to have a break. Members of the Health Professional Team, including Medical, Nursing, and Allied Health personnel see individuals during their admission to assess them and recommend any necessary changes to their care. Carers can meet with the appropriate team members at a Discharge Conference and discuss the care of the person when at home.
Respite admissions may be from one week to several weeks up to a maximum of 63 days a financial year. Extensions can be applied for in special circumstances. Carers are encouraged to establish a regular respite routine which it is hoped will help prevent burnout and assist each person to live in the community as long as possible.
The accommodation fees are the same as for General Nursing Home Care, and are within the range of the full pension. There are some additional costs, for example pharmacy, outings.
Referrals for bookings are made to the Nurse Unit Manager (+61 2) 9804 5854 in conjunction with the Outreach team.
For information on In-home Respite provided through local Community Services please contact the Social Worker mentioned above or your local Community Health Centre or Hospital.
