Respite care means temporary care that gives you, the caregiver, a genuine break — a few hours, a day, or a short stay. It's not a luxury or a failure; it's part of caregiving sustainably, and there are more ways to find and fund it than most families realize.
Sharing the load also means building a small team, so caregiving never rests entirely on one person's shoulders.
Types of respite, and how to pay
Respite comes in a few forms: an in-home aide, an adult day program, or a short overnight stay at a facility. Funding routes include the National Family Caregiver Support Program (through Area Agencies on Aging), state Lifespan Respite voucher programs, Medicaid waivers in nearly all states, and — for veterans — a VA respite benefit of up to 30 days a year. Medicare covers respite only under its hospice benefit. Costs vary, but adult day programs are usually the most affordable option.
Building a care team
Sharing works best when it's organized. Name a primary caregiver, then divide tasks by each person's strengths and proximity — one handles finances, another does grocery runs, another visits on weekends. Even far-away relatives can help with phone calls, bills, or research. Start small: try a half-day of respite before committing to a regular schedule.
- Call the Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) to find local respite and voucher programs.
- Search the ARCH National Respite Locator for in-home, adult day, and short-stay providers.
- Check coverage: ask Medicaid about waivers; if a veteran, call the VA Caregiver Support Line.
- Hold a family meeting to name a primary caregiver and split tasks in writing.
- Try one small respite block first, then build a routine.
Keep a one-page care summary (conditions, medications, doctors, allergies, insurance numbers), a shared caregiving calendar and task list, a contact list for respite providers and caseworkers, and a record of respite hours used.
Frequently asked questions
What is respite care?
It's temporary care — in-home, at an adult day program, or a short facility stay — that gives family caregivers a break to rest and recharge. It's a normal, healthy part of sustainable caregiving.
How much does respite care cost?
It varies, roughly $10-$35 an hour depending on the type. Adult day programs are usually the most affordable, while in-home respite tends to cost more.
Does Medicaid or Medicare pay for respite care?
Medicaid covers respite in nearly all states, most often through Home and Community-Based Services waivers. Medicare covers respite only under its hospice benefit, as short inpatient stays.
How do I find respite care near me?
Contact your Area Agency on Aging through the Eldercare Locator, search the ARCH National Respite Locator, or ask your state Medicaid office about waiver-funded respite.
How do I get other family members to help?
Hold a family meeting, name a primary caregiver, and divide specific tasks by each person's strengths and location — even far-away relatives can handle calls, bills, or research. Putting it in writing helps.