Replacement Caregiver: Home Leave, Rest Days and Sick Leave
A replacement caregiver covers a short, defined period when the permanent caregiver is away: home leave abroad, the weekly rest day, illness or vacation. Care needs do not pause when the caregiver is away — plan the replacement in advance, not at the last minute.
This guide covers when a replacement is needed, a two-week preparation checklist, and how to find a suitable replacement through Orshina.
Need a replacement soon? See available replacement caregivers
When is a replacement caregiver needed?
- Home leave: the permanent caregiver visits family abroad, usually for several weeks.
- The weekly rest day: the caregiver is entitled to continuous weekly rest; many families use a regular rest-day replacement.
- Illness or hospitalization of the permanent caregiver.
- Transition periods between an outgoing and an incoming caregiver.
Checklist: two weeks before the permanent caregiver leaves
- Confirm exact departure and return dates, including flight tickets.
- Contact the corporation and open a replacement request — the earlier, the wider the choice.
- Prepare an info sheet: medications and dosages, daily routine, treating physician, emergency contacts.
- Arrange a one-two day handover between the caregivers if possible.
- Make sure the replacement's employment is arranged lawfully through the bureau/corporation.
- Update involved family members: who covers, when, and what they are responsible for.
What to check in a replacement caregiver
Official background: Hiring a foreign caregiver — gov.il.
- Experience with the relevant condition (dementia, bedridden care, post-hospitalization).
- A basic shared language with the patient or the family.
- Real availability for the entire period, including nights if needed.
- Lawful employment: even short-period employment must be arranged within the permit framework.
Finding a replacement through Orshina
Filter available replacement caregivers in the catalog, and state the exact dates and care needs in your inquiry — the Orshina team will check availability and fit for the requested period.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should a replacement be arranged for home leave?
At least two weeks, preferably a month. The earlier you ask, the wider the choice of suitable replacements and the easier it is to arrange a handover.
Can a replacement be employed without a permit?
No. Even short-period employment must be arranged within the employment permit framework and through a licensed bureau/corporation.
Who covers the caregiver's weekly rest day?
A family member, a replacement caregiver through the corporation, or a local hourly caregiver. Many families set a regular rest-day replacement.
What if the permanent caregiver does not return from home leave?
Notify the corporation immediately. The replacement period can be extended while a new permanent caregiver is located in the catalog.
Last reviewed: July 11, 2026 · Orshina team · Official sources are linked in the guide body.
Need a replacement for an upcoming period?
Filter replacement caregivers in the catalog and state exact dates in your inquiry — the Orshina team will get back to you.
See available replacements