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With all you may do for your loved one - bathing, dressing, feeding, transportation, laundry, shopping, medication management, companionship, emotional support— it can be unsettling to think about someone else stepping in, even temporarily. That’s why it’s crucial for your peace of mind and that of your loved one, to find just the right fit.
When evaluating a respite care program, family members should check to see if it is licensed by the state where they live (where required).
Questions for a respite care provider include:
- What types of services do you provide?
- What accommodations are available?
- What is the staff to resident care guest ratio?
- What type of training do your staff members receive? Do they receive extra training, where appropriate, to meet specific family, resident/guest and community needs?
- How much advance scheduling is required to arrange services?
- On average, what is the typical time frame for a respite stay?
- Do respite care guests have access to all community amenities? Services?
- What daily activities do you offer?
- What is your policy for visitors?
- Does the program provide transportation for the caregiver/senior?
- Does the program keep an active file on the individual's medical condition and other needs? Is there a written care plan?
- How much does the respite care cost?
- What is included in the fee?
- Does this type of care qualify for coverage by Medicare or other insurance?
- Can outside support services be provided on site during their Respite stay? (i.e. Therapies, Hospice, Home Health, Private duty, etc.)
- What is your policy for medical emergencies?
- How is the program evaluated? Are family members contacted for their feedback? If so, review their comments!
Check the respite care options in your area and narrow the list to a few you’d like to visit. Or
call to learn more, if the need is more urgent.