How to Get Respite Care

Taking care of an elder or disabled family member is taxing. Even the best, nicest and easiest of elders take work and their needs don't take a day off. However, caretakers need one. Respite care offers family members an opportunity to take breaks lasting anywhere from a few hours to weeks. It can take place at a facility or in someone's home. Caretakers simply need to examine their options both in the spectrum of services and sources of funding.

Instructions

• 1

  Examine your funding options as they may determine which services you want to consider. If your loved one is a senior with diagnosed medical problems and disabilities, Medicare may cover long-term care costs which include skilled nursing facilities offering respite care services. In this case, you'll need to select an authorized Medicare provider. The same goes for those covered by private medical insurance. If your family member is disabled, payments you or he receive from Social Security or a private disability possibility may be meant to include medical needs including respite care. In this case, you must manage the money yourself and can select any provider.

• 2

  Identify respite care providers in your area using online directories from Medicare, Medicaid, or the individual's private insurance to view a list of network providers. If your loved one isn't part of an organized plan, look for services recommended by credible organizations such as the American Association of Retired People (AARP) or by your local children's hospital for pediatric patients. If you need help, Medicare and most insurers have customer service representatives to help people determine how to use their benefits.

• 3

  Call each provider and learn about its services. Ask about the qualifications of caregivers, how programs operate and if it screens staff for criminal histories and professional misconduct.

• 4

  Visit facilities you may be considering for resident respite care services. If your loved one is lucid, bring her along to ensure she feels comfortable with potential respite care environments.

• 5

  Research respite care camps if you have a disabled child. These programs take an innovative approach of getting even very challenged children outdoors and providing exposure and activity they may not be able to get at home. Many kids embrace this form of respite care because it is fun and resembles activities that non-disabled kids do. Camps are usually private and require personal funds. Your local or regional children's hospital can give you a list of resources in your area.

• 6

  Check with your state department of health, department of consumer affairs and the Better Business Bureau to learn of any problems or complaints with prospective respite care services. These agencies help consumers get information and peace of mind when making decisions.