Effects of Respite Care Services in A Children's Hospice: The Parents’ point of View

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze, from the parents’ point of view, the effects of respite services offered at a children's hospice, the Maison André-Gratton. Method: Qualitative methodology (participatory approach) using mainly semi-structured interviews with parents (25 mothers and 8 fathers). Thematic analysis of the data was done. Findings: Respite stays allow parents to get some rest, to feel liberated from the responsibility of taking care of their sick child for a few days, to focus on their other children and their life as a couple, and to break their social isolation. For siblings, the main benefits are having their parents to themselves and sharing activities with them. Conclusion: Two characteristics of the respite program contribute to the positive effects of respite on families — the high quality of the care offered by a qualified staff, and the adequate length of respite stays.