When you live and work in someone’s home, the ability to “switch off” can be very challenging. Taking breaks in live-in care is not always straightforward — the person you’re looking after may find endless reasons why they need you right this minute. Sometimes it’s not even them, but an unusual sound in the house that makes you double-check all is well.
That’s why, whenever I start a new placement, I set my ground rules: I have two hours every day, and that time is mine. Non-negotiable. I guard it fiercely because it’s limited and precious.
Of course, one might argue that we also have downtime. Yes, technically we do. But let’s be honest — for twenty-two hours a day, we live by someone else’s routine. That’s exactly why those two hours matter. They’re the time to do what makes us happy, to reconnect with who we are.
Breaks are not optional. They’re essential. Without proper rest, you simply can’t provide quality care. And people deserve quality care — not just tasks ticked off, but genuine conversations and real human connection.
Redefining “Break Time”
Taking breaks in live-in care doesn’t always mean a traditional hour-long lunch in a staff room or a Friday night off. Sometimes it’s a quiet moment with a cup of tea and your phone, a walk in the afternoon sun, or even just an hour in your room with the door closed and headphones on. It all counts.
Breaks are precious me-time. You have to carve them out with care and intention.
My Favourite Ways to Spend a Break
Walks: People say there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing. Still, I’m not a fan of rain — at least not if I’m walking in it! On a nice day, though, I’ll spend as much of my break outdoors as possible. A long walk helps me reset. Fresh air changes everything — my mood, my focus, my energy. For me, walking is an exercise. Others might prefer yoga or stretches, but that’s not me.
Crafts: I love creating things. The only danger is getting carried away! I enjoy diamond mosaics, paint-by-numbers, cross-stitching, and making Christmas decorations.
Books: Whenever possible, I read. Sometimes I even treat myself to a coffee out, to sit and bury my nose in a book. It’s such a relief to lose yourself in someone else’s story for a while.
Mindless Entertainment: There’s no shame in indulging a Netflix comedy or scrolling social media if that’s what your brain needs. Not every moment has to be “productive.”
Writing: At school, I loved writing essays, but I stopped for years. Now I make an effort to write again — not only for this blog but also to jot down random thoughts. Who knows, maybe something more will come of it down the road.
Sightseeing: If I’m in a new place, I go exploring. It helps me get to know the area and gives me something interesting to talk about with the person I’m caring for.
Break Guilt Is Real — But Not Useful
Let’s be honest: many of us feel guilty about taking breaks. And sometimes the people we care for don’t help, because they can make us feel even more guilty for stepping away.
Maybe it’s because we’re in the same house. Maybe it’s because we see their needs and convince ourselves that ours can wait. But a tired, burnt-out carer isn’t much help to anyone.
The guilt doesn’t serve us — and it doesn’t serve our clients either. Taking breaks in live-in care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
Protecting Your Time
If your contract says you get two hours a day, take them. Let the agency know if you can’t. Plan ahead. Communicate with family members if they’re stepping in. Keep a little bag packed with a book, a snack, and some water so you can head out the door the moment your cover arrives.
You Deserve the Break
Being a live-in carer is full-on. The lines blur. But your needs matter too. Rest is not a reward you earn for being useful — it’s a basic right.
So the next time you sit down for your break, don’t feel bad. Feel proud: you’re looking after someone and looking after yourself.
Because the best care always starts with care for the carer.
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