How to Find Respite Care

Millions of Americans are caregivers to adult friends and family members. Caring for a loved one presents many emotional and physical challenges for the caregiver. Respite care provides a temporary break from caring responsibilities. Respite assistance may include an afternoon, full day or even a week off from responsibilities, providing a much-needed break for the caregiver. Respite care can relieve stress and improve the caregiver's ability to provide quality care. Each situation is unique, but there are several ways to find respite care that meets you and your loved one's needs.

Instructions

• 1

  Speak to your loved one's physician about respite care. Some respite programs provide respite care for specific illnesses, so ask the physician what respite programs are available for your situation. For example, specialty day programs and community services are available for caretakers who care for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease.

• 2

  Research what kind of respite care is covered by your loved one's insurance policy. Medicare covers respite care for members receiving hospice treatment and provides medical care for short-term stays of up to five days at a Medicare-approved facility, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Insurance coverage for respite care varies, so call your family member's insurance company to find out what respite care options are available to you.

• 3

  Contact adult day centers in your area. Day programs offer a caregiver planned breaks from care duties while providing the loved one with a safe, social environment. Day programs are especially beneficial for loved ones with dementia, Alzheimer's disease and mental challenges, because they offer the person a familiar place to go on a weekly basis and are often operated by medical professionals.

• 4

  Check with your social services agencies for respite care programs in your area. In-home community care programs are often based on income and can provide a short break for caregivers. College students often volunteer through community programs to receive college credits for medical and social work degrees and may even be available to help care for your loved one at home.

• 5

  Contact the ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center for assistance with respite care. The ARCH National Respite Network assists with the development of quality respite programs across the United States. The ARCH National Respite Network also offers an online National Respite Locator to help families and professionals locate quality respite services in their state.

• 6

  Call long-term care facilities and senior living centers in your area, if your loved one qualifies for elder care. These kinds of facilities often offer short-term lodging, meals, socialization and special events for elderly residents. Oftentimes, you can arrange to pay for care by the day, weekend or week, depending on the facility.