RespiteCare.aiSupporting family caregivers
Family caregiver reading information and frequently asked questions about respite care services

Last Updated: November 24, 2025

Respite Care FAQs

Family caregivers often have many questions when considering respite care services. This comprehensive FAQ addresses the most common questions about costs, eligibility, types of care, and how to get started with respite services.

Basics of Respite Care

What is respite care?

Respite care provides temporary relief for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Services can range from a few hours to several weeks and can be provided in-home, at adult day programs, or residential facilities.

Who provides respite care?

Respite care is provided by trained professionals including certified nursing assistants, home health aides, licensed practical nurses, or caregivers with specialized training in areas like dementia care. Providers work through home care agencies, adult day centers, or residential facilities.

What types of respite care are available?

Main types include in-home respite care where a caregiver comes to your home, adult day programs that provide care during daytime hours, residential respite at assisted living or nursing facilities, and emergency respite for unexpected situations.

Is respite care only for elderly people?

No, respite care is available for people of all ages with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or conditions requiring ongoing care. This includes children with special needs, adults with developmental disabilities, and seniors.

Cost and Payment Questions

How much does respite care cost?

In-home respite care typically costs $15-35 per hour, while residential respite care costs $150-350 per day. Costs vary based on location, type of care, caregiver qualifications, and level of services needed.

Does Medicare cover respite care?

Medicare covers up to 5 consecutive days of respite care through hospice programs for terminally ill patients. Medicare generally does not cover respite care for non-hospice situations, but Medicaid may offer coverage through state programs.

Does Medicaid pay for respite care?

Many state Medicaid programs offer respite care benefits through home and community-based services waivers. Coverage and eligibility vary by state. Contact your state Medicaid office or Area Agency on Aging to learn about available programs.

Can veterans get free respite care?

The VA offers respite care through several programs including VA medical centers, community residential care, adult day health care, and homemaker/home health aide services. Eligibility depends on the veteran's service-connected disability rating and other factors.

Getting Started with Respite Care

How do I qualify for respite care?

Qualification requirements vary by program and funding source. Generally, the care recipient must need assistance with daily activities, and the primary caregiver must be a family member or unpaid caregiver. Some programs have income limits or require the care recipient to meet specific care level criteria.

How do I find respite care near me?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging, search the ARCH National Respite Locator, ask your doctor for referrals, check with local home care agencies, or contact family caregiver support organizations like the Family Caregiver Alliance.

How far in advance should I schedule respite care?

For planned respite, schedule 2-4 weeks in advance to ensure caregiver availability. For residential respite at facilities, book 4-6 weeks ahead, especially during holidays. Emergency respite can often be arranged within 24-48 hours.

What if my loved one refuses respite care?

Resistance is common. Start with short visits, introduce the caregiver gradually, involve your loved one in selecting the caregiver, explain benefits, and consider adult day programs for social engagement. It may take several attempts before your loved one becomes comfortable.

Using Respite Care Services

What services do respite caregivers provide?

Respite caregivers assist with activities of daily living including bathing, dressing, toileting, meal preparation, medication reminders, companionship, light housekeeping, mobility assistance, and specialized care for conditions like dementia.

How long can respite care last?

Duration varies by type and funding. In-home respite can be a few hours to several days. Adult day programs operate 6-10 hours per day. Residential respite typically ranges from 3 days to 2 weeks. Some programs limit annual respite hours or days based on funding.

Can I schedule regular respite care?

Yes, many caregivers use respite care on a regular schedule, such as weekly or monthly, to prevent burnout and maintain their own health. Regular respite care is often more affordable than emergency care and allows for better care planning.

Do I need to be present during respite care?

No, the purpose of respite care is to give you time away from caregiving. You can leave for appointments, errands, work, vacation, or simply to rest at home while the respite caregiver is responsible for your loved one's care.

Emergency Situations

Can I use respite care for emergencies?

Yes, emergency respite care is available when unexpected situations arise, such as caregiver illness or family emergencies. Many agencies offer 24-hour or short-notice placement, though emergency rates may be 25-50% higher than scheduled respite.

Related Resources