Key takeaways
- Exhaustion, irritability, poor sleep and dropping your own health appointments are common signs of burnout.
- Respite care means someone else takes over for a few hours or days, so you can rest.
- Regular, planned breaks work better than waiting for a crisis.
- The Ontario Caregiver Helpline (1-833-416-2273) is free and open 24/7.
- If you are in crisis, call 911 or 988.
1. What does caregiver burnout look like?
Burnout builds slowly. Many caregivers only recognize it looking back. Common signs include:
- Feeling tired all the time, even after sleep
- Snapping at the person you care for, then feeling guilty
- Losing touch with friends and things you used to enjoy
- Skipping your own doctor's appointments, meals or exercise
- Getting sick more often
- Feeling hopeless, numb or trapped
It is especially common when caring for someone with dementia, when a spouse is the only carer, or when adult children are also working and raising a family.
2. What is respite care?
Respite care is a planned break for the family caregiver. A trained caregiver takes over so you can sleep, work, see friends, go to your own appointments or simply be a son, daughter or partner again, rather than a full-time carer. It can take several forms:
- In-home respite: a PSW or companion comes to the home for a few hours, overnight or for several days. See respite care.
- Adult day programs: your loved one spends the day at a community program with activities and meals. Many are run by community agencies, sometimes with subsidies.
- Short stays: some long-term care homes offer short respite stays, arranged through Ontario Health atHome.
3. How to use respite care well
- Start before you are exhausted. It is easier for your loved one to get used to a new face when things are calm.
- Make it regular. The same day and caregiver each week builds trust and gives you something to look forward to.
- Use the time for you. It is tempting to spend respite catching up on chores. Rest counts.
- Share what works. Tell the caregiver about routines, favourite foods, music and what tends to upset your loved one.
- Accept imperfect. Someone else may do things differently. That's fine if your loved one is safe and comfortable.
4. A sample weekly respite plan
| When | Care | What it gives you |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, 10am to 2pm | In-home companion visit with lunch and a walk | Time for your own appointments and errands |
| Thursday | Adult day program | A full day for work or rest |
| Saturday night | Overnight caregiver | One full night of unbroken sleep a week |
| Twice a year | Several days of live-in or shift care | A real holiday or family visit |
Wondering what this might cost? Our guide to the cost of home care in Ontario explains what affects the price.
5. Free support for caregivers in Ontario
- Ontario Caregiver Helpline: 1-833-416-2273, free, 24/7. Online chat is available on weekdays. Run by the Ontario Caregiver Organization, which also offers counselling, peer support and free online learning for caregivers.
- Alzheimer Society: if you care for someone with dementia, ask your doctor about a First Link referral. Our dementia daily routine guide has practical tips too.
- Ontario Health atHome: call 310-2222 to ask about publicly funded respite, day programs and support at home.
- Your own doctor: tell them you are a caregiver. It affects your health too.
The helpline is not a crisis line. If you or someone else is in danger, call 911. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988.
6. How Artistic Home Care helps family caregivers
We provide respite care and companionship care for a few hours, overnight or for several days. After a free, no-obligation consult, our registered nurse writes a plan so the caregiver knows your loved one's routines, preferences and needs. Visits start at 4 hours, and our caregivers speak English, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu.
We serve families across Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton and the GTA, 24/7. Book a free consult or call 437-985-6225. If you are not sure your loved one needs care yet, read the 10 signs a parent may need help.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a caregiver take a break?
Regularly, not just in emergencies. Even one fixed half-day a week can make a big difference over months.
Is respite care covered in Ontario?
Some respite, such as adult day programs or short stays, may be available through Ontario Health atHome and community agencies. Private respite is paid by the family.
Will my loved one be upset by a new caregiver?
Some people are at first. Start with short visits while you are at home, keep the same caregiver, and share routines and favourite activities.
Can I book respite for a holiday?
Yes. Book early, especially for long weekends and the winter holidays, and plan a short trial visit beforehand.
Cover photo: Stacey Koenitz on Unsplash
Published 19 October 2026 · Last updated 19 October 2026
