Beginner’s Guide to Elderly Respite Care
Respite care means a lot of things to different people, but overall, it involves providing temporary care for seniors or older adults who need supportive services. As someone who cares for their parents or aging family members, it can be tough to make a decision regarding respite care for them.
Perhaps you’ve been serving as a caregiver in addition to your everyday responsibilities. Or maybe your loved one’s primary caregiver could use a break to lighten their load. Whatever the case, respite care is a viable option.
What is respite care?
As noted, respite care is a temporary care option for older adults looking for short-term hospitality services. Respite care is often used when:
A family caregiver needs a break or is unavailable to help due to travel or their own illness or injury.
An individual would like a “trial run” to experience life in a long-term care facility.
Individuals who are assessing options for transitioning from a caregiver to a new place.
Respite care is a great option for a senior who needs day-to-day supportive services but still desires social stimulation, engagement, and activities.
Respite care examples
Respite care can come in many forms. Some of the services and amenities provided by Mitchell Hollingsworth include:
Furnished suites
Nutritional meals and snacks
Housekeeping, laundry service, and linen changes
Social, spiritual, educational, and recreational activities
Physical and occupational therapy options
Scheduled transportation
24/7 around the clock nursing care
Benefits of respite care
Respite care is a great option for seniors who need a comfortable and caring temporary place to stay. One of the biggest impacts on a senior’s life is socialization. Seniors are prone to loneliness because their health conditions and physical limitations isolate them. Long-term care facilities create a sense of belonging. A respite care stay will highlight this. It will also give you a glimpse into life after your loved one transitions.
For many individuals or families of seniors, respite care can provide an abundance of benefits that help alleviate the stress or burnout associated with caring for a loved one. It can also create time for caregivers to look for more permanent long-term care options.
Who pays for respite care?
When paying for respite care, costs are usually covered by the individual or their family. In some instances, long-term insurance care plans will cover this type of care or a hospice company.
DOES MEDICARE PAY FOR RESPITE CARE?
In most cases, Medicare insurance programs do not pay for respite care alone. If respite care is used in conjunction with hospice care, Medicare may cover respite stays in a nursing home, assisted living community, or hospital for up to five days at a time. Make sure you check with your provider to learn your options.
DOES MEDICAID PAY FOR RESPITE CARE?
Medicaid does not pay for respite care under its general benefits coverage plans. That said, you may be eligible for coverage under your state's Medicaid waiver program. If you’re wondering whether Medicaid covers respite care for elderly individuals, check your state’s Medicaid guidelines and waiver programs.
Respite care at Mitchell Hollingsworth
At Mitchell Hollingsworth, we carefully consider the needs of each of our residents, tailoring their care plans to match what they need, what they want, and what their loved ones are advocating for.
With respite care, your role will shift from a caretaker and provider to a family member and loved one. Your responsibilities will be lifted, and hopefully, your peace of mind will also be fully restored. At Mitchell Hollingsworth, we advocate for respite because we know how great the responsibility is to the people we love. Let us help you.
