Room to rest and reset
Respite support for family caregivers
Learn about short-term or recurring support that can give a family caregiver time to rest, work, attend appointments, or keep showing up.
Who it may fit
Begin with the day, not a label.
Respite may help when a family member is providing regular support and needs another trusted person to share part of the day or week.
A scheduled break for the family caregiver
Supervision and companionship while a caregiver is away
Help with familiar routines during a planned visit
Short-term or recurring schedules, depending on provider availability
Before you compare options
Bring the practical details you already know.
Tell providers what the caregiver currently handles, when relief would help, and whether the person receiving care has any routines that need to stay consistent.
Paying for it
How respite is usually paid for
- Respite at home is usually paid privately at the provider’s hourly rate. Ask about minimums for a single visit.
- Erie County NY Connects, (716) 858-8526, can tell family caregivers about public programs and caregiver support they may qualify for.
- Medicare’s hospice benefit can include short inpatient respite for hospice patients; ordinary respite at home is generally not covered by Medicare.
General information, not financial or legal advice. Confirm coverage with your plan or caseworker.
Questions to ask providers
- Do you offer a one-time block of care, like covering a weekend away?
- How much notice do you need to schedule respite?
- Can the caregiver meet the family before the first visit?
Related guides
- How many hours of home care does a senior need?
- Private-pay vs. insurance-covered home care
- How much does home care cost in Buffalo, NY?
Sources
A simple next step
Want to talk through this care option?
Share a few details about what you are exploring. You do not need to know the exact care term before you begin.