Respite and Short Stay Care Across Scotland

Meallmore’s respite and short stay care services offer flexible support for older adults who need care on a temporary basis. This could be for recovery after illness, a trial stay, or to provide regular carers with time to rest and recharge. Whether you're staying for a few days or a few weeks, you’ll receive the same standard of care, comfort, and attention as our long-term residents – with 24/7 support, access to facilities, and a welcoming team ready to help.

Residents and our manager Veronica from Kelvinside Manor

What is respite care?

Respite care is a short-term care arrangement that offers professional support in a care home setting for those who are unable to manage independently at home for a period of time.

At Meallmore, respite care is available across our homes in Scotland and can be planned in advance or arranged quickly when needed. It’s ideal for individuals needing a break from routine, support during recovery, or a temporary care solution when family carers are away.

Our short stay care offers flexibility, comfort, and complete access to our care home facilities – including 24-hour support, freshly prepared meals, medication assistance, and social activities. Whether you're staying for a few nights or a few weeks, you'll receive the same high standard of care as our full-time residents. It’s a practical and reassuring option for families looking for trusted, temporary care across Scotland.

A Meallmore resident from our Auchtercrag House Care Home in Ellon, enjoying breakfast and a cup of tea

Flexible support tailored to short-term needs

We offer short stay care for older adults who need extra support on a temporary basis. Whether for recovery, reassurance, or relief, our respite services are designed to provide safe, structured care in a comfortable and friendly setting.

Post-Hospital Recovery Support

Our short stay care helps individuals recover safely after hospital discharge, illness, or injury. We assist with mobility, medication, nutrition, and day-to-day routines to support a smooth return to health.

Carer Breaks and Holiday Cover

Respite care gives family carers the opportunity to rest, travel, or attend to other responsibilities while knowing their loved one is receiving high-quality, round-the-clock care in a trusted environment.
Trial Stays Before Permanent Care
Many residents begin with a short stay to experience life in a Meallmore care home. Trial stays offer reassurance for families and residents before committing to a long-term arrangement.
Emergency and Unplanned Respite
We provide fast, flexible admissions where possible, offering a safe solution for unexpected situations – such as hospital stays, illness, or short-term disruption to home care arrangements.
Access to Full Facilities and Activities
During their stay, respite residents enjoy full access to our home's facilities, including freshly prepared meals, social activities, communal areas, and optional therapies or wellbeing sessions.
Personalised Care and Support Plans
Even for short stays, every resident receives a personalised care plan tailored to their needs, preferences, and routines – ensuring comfort, safety, and continuity of care from day one.

Professional short-term care for a range of health needs

Our short stay care is suitable for individuals with a variety of care needs, including:

Recovery from Illness or Surgery

Support with mobility, pain relief, and rehabilitation following a hospital stay or treatment.

Mild to Moderate Frailty

Gentle assistance with personal care, mealtimes, and daily routines for older adults needing extra support.

Reduced Mobility or Fall Risk

Safe environments and 24-hour supervision to support confidence and independence during recovery or rest periods.

Low-Level Memory Loss or Early Dementia

We can support individuals in the early stages of dementia, providing structure, calm routines and supervision as needed.

Carer Absence or Emergency Cover

Immediate short-term care when families are temporarily unavailable due to illness, travel or other commitments.

Social Engagement and Companionship

For those feeling isolated at home, a short stay at Meallmore can provide a sense of connection, routine and enjoyment in a supportive setting.

Our residents experience enriched living across all our Meallmore Care Homes.

At Meallmore, we're dedicated to crafting an extraordinary experience for our residents. We believe in embracing life to the fullest, fostering independence, preserving dignity, and championing choice in every aspect of daily living.

Our compassionate team, from caregivers and nurses to activities coordinators and chefs, is passionately committed to a person-centered approach. We take the time to truly understand each resident, their unique preferences, and what brings them joy.

Life at Meallmore is a personalised journey, whether it involves engaging activities, meaningful social connections, serene moments of reflection, nourishing meals, or holistic well-being.

Respite and Short-Stay Care at Meallmore

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing short stay care – whether for rest, recovery, or carer relief – can raise a lot of questions. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common things families ask us about respite care at Meallmore. If you’d prefer to talk it through, our team is always here to help.

How long can someone stay for respite care?
Do I need a referral from a doctor or hospital to access respite care?
What’s included in a respite or short stay?
How far in advance do I need to book a short stay?
Can respite care turn into long-term care if needed?
Can people with early-stage dementia or memory loss use respite care?
What do I need to bring for a short stay?
Is respite care funded, or do I need to pay privately?

Our Reviews Speak For Themselves.

Meallmore’s network of care homes in Scotland provides compassionate, professional care in serene, comfortable surroundings. Join thousands of families who trust Meallmore for quality care across Scotland.