By MindWise HealthRespite Program
1 treatment center 8 services offered
1 treatment center on Curivya lists Respite Program, across Tennessee. The same location also lists Family Program, Supportive Housing Services, Continuing Care, Transitional Living (Halfway House Services) and Intensive Residential Treatment.
A respite program gives family caregivers a break by providing short-term care for the person they look after. The federal Lifespan Respite Care Act defines respite as planned or emergency care for a child or adult with a special need, provided to give the family caregiver temporary relief.
It is for caregivers of people with a disability, serious mental illness, dementia or another condition that needs ongoing support. A break might last a few hours, a weekend or longer, so the caregiver can rest, work, travel or handle an emergency.
Forms respite can take
Respite is organized around the caregiver's need for a break, so it comes in several forms.
- In-home: a trained worker comes to your home for a few hours or overnight.
- Out-of-home: the person stays for a short period in a residence or facility that offers respite stays.
- Day programs: supervised daytime activities outside the home.
- Planned respite, booked in advance, or emergency respite when a caregiver is suddenly unable to provide care.
Why caregivers use it
Caregiving without a break is hard to sustain. The federal Administration for Community Living notes that respite can contribute to the health and well-being of both caregivers and the people they care for, and can help prevent early admission to a nursing home.
Using respite is not giving up. Many caregivers wait until they are at breaking point. It is usually easier on everyone to set up respite before it is urgent, so the person can get used to new carers and a new place.
Preparing for a break
A first respite stay goes more smoothly with preparation. Write down the person's daily routine, medications and doses, allergies, what helps when they are upset, and who to call in an emergency. Share any recent changes in health or behavior.
Many families start with a short visit or a few hours of in-home respite so the person can get to know new carers. Ask the provider how it introduces new people and how it will contact you during the break.
How respite is paid for
Funding depends on the person's condition, age and eligibility. In Tennessee, respite is one of the services available through Medicaid waiver programs administered by the Department of Disability and Aging, and many states run Lifespan Respite programs funded through the federal Administration for Community Living. Some families pay privately.
Ask any respite provider about eligibility, cost, how far ahead to book, staff training, and how it handles medications and medical or behavioral needs.
Common questions about Respite Program
What is respite care?
It is short-term care for a person who needs ongoing support, so their usual family caregiver can take a break. It can be planned in advance or arranged in an emergency.
How long can respite care last?
It ranges from a few hours to several days or more, depending on the program and on what funding allows. Ask the provider and the funding program about limits.
Does Medicaid pay for respite care?
In many states, including Tennessee, respite is included in certain Medicaid waiver programs for people who qualify. Check eligibility with the state agency or the person's care coordinator.
Is respite care the same as hospice or long-term residential care?
No. Respite is temporary, with the person returning home to their usual caregiver afterwards. Long-term residential care is a permanent move, and hospice is end-of-life care.