Respite Care.

Respite care is short-term, temporary relief for the primary caregiver of someone who needs ongoing support. It can happen in your home, at an adult day program, or as a short stay in a residential setting. The goal: give caregivers a real break before burnout sets in.

In-home respite typically runs $25–$40 per hour. Adult day programs are $75–$120 per day. Short-term residential stays usually $200–$400 per night. Costs vary by region and care intensity. Many caregivers are surprised that less help than they thought is enough — even a few hours a week makes a real difference.

Medicare generally doesn't, except up to 5 days at a time as part of hospice. Medicaid waivers in most states cover respite for qualifying caregivers. Veterans benefits frequently include respite. Long-term care insurance often does. Always check your specific policy and state programs — coverage varies more than people expect.

If you've stopped sleeping well, snapped at someone you love, missed your own medical appointments, or felt resentment toward the person you're caring for — those are signs. You don't need to hit a wall to deserve a break. Most caregivers wait too long. The right time is before you need it desperately.

For planned respite, most placements happen within a week — that includes a free in-home assessment and a careful caregiver match. For emergency respite, we can often have someone in your home within hours.