Effectiveness of respite care services : a literature review

Abstract

Respite Care is a concept that originated in the United States only about two decades ago. It is a complex service that was offered initially to disabled people and their families. It has developed and spread considerably since its genesis but there is much about the subject that is still to be known. The concept made its way to Malta only recently with the first respite care programme initiated three years ago. 'Dar il-Kaptan' is a respite residence model that has the sole purpose of providing respite. The initiative was taken by parents of disabled people. These parents advocated the service and managed to see the outcome of their efforts. Unfortunately, even now, the general public knows very little about this service: what it really is, how it works, and what it aims to achieve. It was through close contact with families of disabled people that I became interested in respite care. Since the start of the scheme, I have watched the development of services at Dar il-Kaptan, and this has enhanced my interest in the subject and planted in me an urge to know more. Disability issues have always had a certain impact on me and I al ways felt the responsibility society has towards enhancing and normalising the lives of disabled people and their families.