Nell,
I don't think it's as straightforward as that. Disabled children do not deteriorate to the same extent as people with AD when they go for respite. They often regard it as a holiday for themselves.
Respite is quite likely to cause a setback for people with AD. For one thing, they may become confused and agitated when removed from familiar surroundings. They may become depressed at being separated from their primary carer. And if they are borderline incontinent, as my husband is, they will probably become totally incontinent because NH staff do not have the time to watch out for or recognise warning signs, as those who care 24/7 do.
I've cared for my husband single-handed for 7 years, and have been told I need respite, but I cannot see the point in placing John in a NH for a week, and have him come home much worse than he went in. I have discussed this with John's consultant, and he agrees that that is the likely outcome.
I didn't go into detail in my earlier post, because I didn't want to influence Flamingo unduly.
As I said, the decision is very much an individual one, and no-one knows in detail anyone else's circumstances.
I just felt I had to give the other side of the picture.
Love,