What is Respite Care and Where Can I Find it?

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respite (noun)
re·spite | \ ˈre-spət
1: a period of temporary delay
2: an interval of rest or relief

Respite care is any service or support that provides short-term relief to caregivers. Respite enables those who regularly care for a loved one to take time away from their usual duties. Many caregivers use respite when they need to work, go on vacation, or just want a break.

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Where do I find respite care?

Respite care for your loved one can take place at home, at a center with adult day services, or at residential facilities.

At Home

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Depending on your loved one’s needs or health conditions, a home care agency can provide:

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Companionship
Personal care assistance (help with grooming, bathing, eating, mobility, etc.)
Home health aides
Medication reminders
Homemaker services

Adult Day Services

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Adult day services offer professional care, socialization, and enrichment opportunities in community-based group settings. You can usually expect these programs to provide:

Door-to-door transportation
Health monitoring
Meals and snacks
Personal care assistance
Social activities
Arts, crafts, and games
Exercise
Outings and outdoor activities

Residential Facilities

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Assisted living facilities or nursing homes may offer care to non-residents on an as-needed basis. Respite in a residential facility can include:

Overnight stays
Health monitoring
Medication distribution
Skilled nursing
Meals and snacks
Exercise and enrichment activities

How much does respite cost?

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Respite care is charged by the hour or per day. Though the overall cost will depend on location and care provided, adult day services are typically the most affordable with a national average of around $98 per day. In-home care averages between $26 and $34 per hour and residential facilities are closer to $30 per hour.

How can I pay for respite care?

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Many choose to pay out-of-pocket, but there are plenty of other options that can help pay for respite care.

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Medicare

Medicare Part A covers respite care if it is part of a patient’s hospice care and only if it is taking place in an inpatient facility that is Medicare-approved. It will pay for 5 consecutive days of care.

Veteran’s Benefits

A great way to help cover care costs is to utilize VA Aid and Attendance benefits. These benefits may provide additional monthly payments to veterans who need assistance with activities of daily living (ADL) or are housebound. However, the VA also offers inpatient respite for up to 30 days for qualifying veterans.

Long-Term Care Insurance

This is supplemental insurance that helps pay for costs associated with long-term care. Most policies include respite care, but be sure to check for yourself!

Community Support

Your local Area Agency on Aging may provide resources that can help you pay for care. And, at the very least, most can give you recommendations for respite.

Need help finding respite?

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Caring for yourself is just as important as caring for a loved one. And, respite can help to alleviate any caregiver burnout you may be experiencing! If you need help locating help, then start with our directories for Adult Day Services and Home Care. For additional help, visit ARCH National Respite Network.

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Do you have questions about hospice? Then, read our Hospice FAQ’s!