Parenting is a rewarding journey, but when a child has disabilities, the responsibilities can become overwhelming without the right support. Across Canada, thousands of families dedicate themselves to providing specialized care, ensuring their children thrive. However, the emotional, physical, and financial demands can take a toll. A recent report found that over half of parents caring for children with disabilities experience significant stress and burnout, with many struggling to find support that allows them even a moment to recharge.

Parents As Full-Time Caregivers

Many families have little choice but to juggle work, household responsibilities, and caregiving, often sacrificing their well-being in the process. The numbers speak for themselves. According to Statistics Canada, 38% of regular caregivers of a child report feeling depressed as a result of their caregiving responsibilities, according to Statistics Canada. Many also find themselves reducing their work hours or leaving their jobs entirely to meet their child’s needs. 

The lack of accessible respite care services leaves families in a constant state of exhaustion, with no real opportunity to recharge. And when caregivers are stretched too thin, children don’t get the best version of their parents. It doesn’t have to be this way. Respite care offers a lifeline, providing children with safe, engaging environments while giving caregivers the break they desperately need.

Why Respite Care is a Game-Changer for Families

Respite care isn’t about stepping away from responsibility, it’s about ensuring families can thrive. When parents have access to temporary relief, they can recharge, maintain their health, and continue providing the best possible care for their children. Studies show that families who receive respite support experience lower stress levels, improved family relationships, and better health outcomes for both parents and children. 

A Lifeline for Families

For families in Edmonton and Calgary, BrightStar Respite is bridging the gap, providing compassionate and professional respite care tailored specifically for children with disabilities. Their mission is simple: give parents the support they need while ensuring children receive the highest quality of care in a safe and enriching environment.

BrightStar Respite offers:

• In-Home Respite – Skilled caregivers provide personalized care in the child’s home, allowing parents to step away with peace of mind.
• Community Respite – Engaging group environments where children can interact, learn, and grow while receiving specialized support.
• Overnight Respite – Safe, overnight care for children, allowing parents to get the rest they need.
• Sibling Care – Support for families managing care for multiple children, ensuring no child feels overlooked.
• Urgent Respite – Immediate assistance for families facing unexpected emergencies.

Beyond standard respite services, we also offer behavioural support, speech therapy, and individualized care programs, ensuring that each child receives the tailored attention they deserve.

Supporting Families, One Break at a Time

Parents of children with disabilities already feel like they carry a heavy load. They shouldn’t have to do it alone. BrightStar Respite understands the unique challenges families face and is positioned to provide the right support. To learn more about how we can support your family, visit BrightStar Respite.