Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability
Jim Shulman, Executive Director

"State legislators have a particular interest in supporting family caregivers-the backbone of their long-term care systems. The annual value of their work ($196 billion nationwide in 1997) far outweighs the amount of money being spent on nursing homes ($83 billion) and home health care ($32 billion.) But, this "invisible care system" is at enormous risk. More than one in ten caregivers become physically ill or injured as a direct result of caregiving, and anywhere from 43 percent to 46 percent suffer from depression." Source - National Conference of State Legislatures.

Respite defined: respite is a period of rest or relief. Respite care provides the caregiver with time away from the routine and stress of caring for the physical, emotional or social needs of the person with Alzheimer's disease. Of great concern is that the caregiver remains healthy and able to continue with his/her caregiving responsibity. You will have to ask, though, as no one will know that you need help if you do not make your needs known.

What types of respite services are available to a person with Alzheimer's disease?

• Help with personal care and grooming
• Activities or recreation
• Physical exercise
• Meals and snacks
• day care
• long term care
• home health care

How much does it costs?

Respite care varies in price. Some adult day care agencies have very affordable rates, whereas long term facilities could run over $3000 per month. At the present time, Medicare and Medicaid do not cover respite services. Some private insurances may; however, it's advised that you check with your admnistrator.

How do I know which service to pick?

There are various types of respite care. Choices range from day care to round-the-clock care, from in-home care provided by family, friends or hired health aides, to adult day-care facilities to 24hr nursing homes and/or combinations of either. Some are low cost or expensive - few are free. You will need to determine which form of respite care provides the service you require. Your local Area Agency on Agency or a Geriatric Manager can assist you in evaluating your needs and ascertaining which resources are available.

What questions do I ask when I call the respite service providers?

Do you provide respite care for people suffering with Alzheimer's Disease?
(if yes)Tell me about your program.

Then you could ask these questions:
To what stage will you care for them?
How many days a week are your services available?
What types of activities do you have?
Do you:
-serve meals?
-provide transportation?
-monitor and administer the medication?
What do you do for incontinence?
How many individuals do you care for at your facility?
How many have Alzheimers?
What is the ratio of staff?
Is your staff trained to work with persons suffering with Alzheimer's Disease?
Do you have medical professionals on staff?
What does it cost?
Is there any special funding available?

Respite Resources

Respite Care in Tennessee
National Search
National Respite Network and Resource Center

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