Respite care refers to short-term stays in assisted living communities that provide round-the-clock care and support, enriching programs and activities, as well as on-site medical support. Unlike assisted living, respite care is generally the solution when present caregivers need a break to recharge or when they require additional support. This can occur if they have out-of-state commitments, additional medical needs, or even as a flexible option.
There are many benefits to making use of respite care services, but these are shadowed by the worry of being faced by a large bill. Read on to find out more about what respite care can do for you and how much you can expect to be charged for an average stay.
Types of Respite Care
There are many forms of respite care. You can choose between either having a professional come to your house to help you with your day-to-day activities or moving to an assisted living residence.
For respite care that takes place in your own home, it is great for families who simply require more help. The respite care provider will travel to your residence and accompany your loved one as a companion while you are away. Different providers will have different levels of support. For example, home health aides may provide support with more activities like household chores and cooking. Either way, they ensure that your loved one will stay safe during the day and have enriching social interaction while you are away.
For respite care that requires your loved one to move to an assisted living community, it is perfect for caregivers who are going to be temporarily unavailable or for individuals who require intensive medical support during a period of rehabilitation. Assisted living communities provide different amenities like nutritious meals, transportation, fun and exciting activities, and 24/7 medical support. They are essentially apartment complexes with additional support for people who require assistance with their day-to-day activities. This option is also a good preview for individuals to experience assisted living before committing to a longer-term stay. Alternatively, there are also day programs that allow your loved one to both enjoy the benefits of exclusive senior living programs while still living in the comfort of their own home with family.
Cost of Respite Care
The cost of respite care will vary depending on the type, the length of stay as well as the location and community that you choose. On average, short-term respite care in assisted living communities cost between $150 to $300 per day. Adult day programs come in at around $100. It is important to take note for all types of respite care that there may be a minimum commitment period that will significantly affect the projected costs.
Most respite care falls under private pay. However, there are options to consider that may provide funding. For example, if you or your loved one has long-term care insurance, it may have a clause to provide respite care benefits. There are also multiple institutions that you can consider contacting for funding such as your state, nonprofits, organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association, Veterans Administration, or even your social security insurance.
At Discovery Commons At Wildewood, we believe that giving caregivers and their loved ones peace of mind and exceptional care is at the heart of what we do. Contact us today to find out more about the benefits we offer as well as the rates of our services.
