Respite care typically refers to a short-term stay at a senior
community, usually an assisted
living or memory
care community. Respite care is a great living option for
an elderly or disabled person who needs some day-to-day supportive
services, but still desires social stimulation, engagement and
activities. This type of care can also sometimes refer to in-home
caregiving services used for only a short period.
A Temporary Care Solution for Adults
For the 65 million Americans caring for an aging or disabled
loved one, respite care can serve a number of valuable functions.
Respite is often used when:
- The family caregiver needs to travel
- The family caregiver needs a break
- As a trial of a senior community, when a family is deciding
whether a community is right for them
- A family caregiving recipient needs a temporary change of pace,
or a break
- A family is gradually easing their loved one into life at a
senior community
Because of the high stress associated with caring for a loved
one with a memory disorder, respite is frequently sought by the
family of people with Alzheimer's or other kinds of dementia.
Family caregivers use the opportunity to "recharge their
batteries".
Respite Care Services
The services and amenities available to long-term assisted
living residents are also available to respite residents. These
services and amenities usually include:
- Three nutritious meals daily
- Medication management
- 24-hour supervision and security
- Assistance with personal care needs such as bathing, dressing,
toileting and grooming
- Laundry service
- Housekeeping
- Activities and outings
- Transportation
Respite Care Facilities Costs
At assisted living communities, temporary care respite stays are
usually less than one month long, and can cost between $75 to $200
per day, according to 2012 Genworth.com data. It's important to
keep in mind that the cost of respite care varies with the type of
agency and services the person needs. Fortunately, there are
financial programs that may help
pay for respite care. For example, long-term care insurance
policies may cover some of the cost of respite care. Most assisted
living and memory care communities, assuming they aren't full,
offer respite.