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Respite care is the temporary relief or rest from tasks associated with caregiving. This care can be for a few hours, a few days, or several weeks. All caregivers will require respite care. It is essential in maintaining the capability of the caregiver to care for the diagnosed individual. There are several different ways that families arrange respite care.
- Help from family and friends. Ask for help and be specific. Often, family members and friends welcome the opportunity to provide assistance - particularly if they know what is needed. Faith communities also may be able to provide respite assistance or help in other ways. Whether it is once in a while, a routine time, or an emergency back up, do not hesitate to ask for help.
- Adult Day Care. Adult day care can be very beneficial to the person with dementia and the family. It provides socialization and stimulation to the diagnosed person and also gives caregivers blocks of time to themselves. There are adult day care centers located throughout the National Capital Area Chapter territory. Individuals can enroll on a daily basis or for just a couple of days a week, depending on availability and their situation. Medicaid often covers adult day care for eligible families, and many centers have scholarships or funds that make it possible to adjust the cost for families with limited income.
- In-Home Health Care. In-home health care can be obtained in several ways. In some limited situations, it may be covered by health insurance. Counties frequently provide home health services to families who meet their eligibility criteria. However, most home care is paid out-of- pocket by family. There are many home care agencies and registries that can provide assistance. Finally, some families locate care by referrals from family members, friends or advertising.
- Residential Care Facilities. Many assisted living facilities and nursing homes will provide respite care, if they have space available. Family members can then get away for a long weekend, or several weeks. Facilities usually will still require admission paperwork and charge their daily rate. Some do have a minimum length of stay. A respite stay in a facility also can be an opportunity for families considering residential care in the future to have a trial of the facility and see how their loved one adjusts to this setting.
How Does the Alzheimer's Association Help with Respite Care?
- Information. The Chapter Helpline can provide literature and resource information on day care, home care and residential facilities to assist you in locating respite care in your area and knowing what questions to ask. Additionally, the Helpline has a listing of the Area Agencies on Aging that also provide a range of information and services. Chapter Support Groups also are good places to talk with other families to share information, resources and first hand experiences.
- Herbert Dyer Respite Fund. This is a limited financial assistance fund intended to help families with the cost of respite care. The Fund will assist in paying for care provided by a licensed home health care agency, a licensed assisted living home, or a licensed nursing facility. It is available to families within the Chapter territory. Call the Helpline at 703-359-4440 or toll-free 1-800-272-3900 for details and an application.
In the National Capital Area chapter service territory, for more information about
Respite Care, please contact the Chapter's telephone Helpline at 703-359-4440 or toll-free 1-800-272-3900. Outside the National Capital Area, please contact your local Chapter.
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© 1997 - 2005 Alzheimer's Association, National Capital Area. All rights reserved.
703-359-4440 or toll-free 1-800-272-3900
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