Respite Care
What is respite care?
Respite care is a form of short-term relief offered for primary caregivers, where a professional takes over their caregiving tasks for a predetermined amount of time. This can be for just an afternoon, several days, or multiple weeks.
Respite care can occur in an older adult’s home, at an adult day center, or in a healthcare facility.
The cost of respite care is charged hourly or based on the number of days the service is provided. Insurance plans do not typically cover these costs, but Medicare will cover most of the price for up to 5 days in a row when respite care is provided in a hospital or skilled nursing facility for someone receiving hospice care. Medicaid may also offer assistance in some cases.
Why is respite care important?
Respite care offers primary caregivers a break from caring for a disabled, sick, or aging family member. This can help ease the burden of caregiving and relieve any stress the caregiver may be feeling, which can help them restore their energy and prevent burnout.
Respite care also offers a change of routine for the individuals being cared for, in addition to new stimulation and variety.