Respite for Dementia Caregivers | Elder Options of Texas

For seniors who live with a relative who provides them with regular care assistance, non-medical care can be received in the form of respite care (in-home or out-of-home). Respite care allows primary caregivers a break from their caregiving duties.

Luckily, respite care services are available to help caregivers carve out time to run errands, take vacations, and handle unexpected situations. Some types of respite care are provided in the home by either volunteer or paid caregivers. If you are lucky enough to have a friend or family member available to visit and help you with care on a short-term basis, this may also be included under this category. Many non medical in-home care providers offer respite services too.

Central Texas Dementia Respite Programs (PDF)

Other Respite Options

Companion Services. This usually consists of one-on-one socializing and supervised activity.
Skilled Care Services. These services usually involve more highly qualified nursing staff who can do things such as provide medication.
Home Health Aides. These caregivers assist with activities including dressing, bathing, toileting, and exercise.
Homemaker Services. These services usually provide help with activities such as laundry, shopping, and cooking.

Adult Day Care Centers - These facilities offer day care on a short-term or regular recurring basis. There are often supervised activities, such as art, music, or excursions; most facilities provide meals and transportation.

Residential facilities - Some residential facilities may allow short-term residents to stay overnight, for a period of days, or for a few weeks. This allows a more long-term supervised environment for dementia patients while caregivers get an extended break; however, the price is usually not covered by Medicare or insurance. TIP: Sometimes, a person with dementia may have difficulty adjusting to a new environment. Regular stays can allow the overall adjustment to become easier.

Ways to Pay for Respite Care

Paying for respite care can be a challenge. There are several ways to pay for respite services in Texas, and places to find out more about your options.

Some places to start include:

The Family Caregiver Support Program - This is a national program that provides grants to states to fund support programs for people caring for older loved ones in the home. In Texas, respite care can be funded through this program. Those who qualify meet one or more of the following requirements:

Caregivers caring for someone aged 60 or older.
Caregivers providing care for someone with Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder.
Caregivers aged 55 or older caring for a disabled relative aged 18 to 59.
Members of tribal organizations who are considered eligible for services according to individual tribal rules.

Medicaid Waivers - Medicaid waivers can also pay for respite services. In Texas, this is administered by the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS), and you can find and call your local office here: www.dads.state.tx.us/services/contact.cfm - Medicaid waivers are subject to federal approval, and not everyone qualifies; in many areas, there are waiting lists for funding. However, it is worth it to do some research and see if you qualify.

VA Caregiver Support - There are resources available for people caring for veterans; more information on the support services available to you, click here:

www.elderoptionsoftexas.com/article_va_caregiver_support_program.htm

Aging Texas Well - This state program promotes individual and community readiness to care for aging loved ones, and offers a variety of resources on how to find and pay for respite care. Check out their website here:

https://hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/leadership/advisory-committees/aging-texas-well

Area Agencies on Aging - There are 28 Texas Area Agencies on Aging that provide services to help caregivers find support throughout the state.

All caregivers need a break sometimes. Start with these resources, and you should be able to find an option that works for you.

Benefits of Caregiver Respite Support

Ways to Pay for Respite Care