CT Statewide Respite Care Program

Being a family caregiver is a remarkable act of love. You give your time, energy, and heart to someone you care about deeply. But let's face it: caregiving can be emotionally and physically draining. Sometimes, you need a break. That's where the Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program comes in. This program gives family caregivers like you a much-needed breather, knowing your loved one is in good hands.

What is the Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program?

While caring for a loved one can be a fulfilling experience, it can also lead to burnout for the family caregiver. The constant stress and demands of caregiving become overwhelming. Symptoms may include frustration, exhaustion, and irritability. If these feelings arise, it's time to seek help. 

Think of this program as a helping hand for family caregivers. It provides financial assistance to pay for temporary care services for your care recipient. The Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program allows you to take a break for a few hours, a day, or even a week to recharge and return feeling refreshed and ready to give your best.

The Respite Care Program has two main goals:

• Support family caregivers: It allows you to rest from the everyday demands of caregiving, reducing stress and preventing burnout.
• Maintain quality care for your loved one: It guarantees your loved one continues to receive the supervision they need while you're away.

This respite program provides continued quality care for the loved one while allowing the caregiver to prioritize their well-being.

Services covered under the Connecticut Respite Care Program

The beauty of this program is its flexibility. Choose the respite care that best suits your needs and your loved one's situation. Here are some examples:

• In-home care: A qualified caregiver can come to your home and assist with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and medication management.
• Adult daycare: Lets your loved one spend a day in a secure and stimulating environment, enjoying social interaction, meals, and activities while you have some time for yourself.
• Short-term stays in assisted living facilities: Your loved one can receive temporary care in a supportive environment, offering a change of scenery and professional care while you're away.
• Homemaker services: Someone can come in to help with tasks like cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation, easing your burden.

Eligibility for the Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program

Does your family qualify for the Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program? There are a few requirements to qualify for the program:

Residency requirements

You and the person you care for must both live in Connecticut. A program case manager must approve the caregiver and the home environment where the care will be provided, ensuring your loved one receives care in a safe and suitable setting.

Age and health requirements

The person you care for must be 60 years old or older and have Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia disorder. A doctor's note is required to confirm the diagnosis.

Financial requirements

There is an income and asset test for the person needing care, not the caregiver. This means your income won't affect your eligibility, but the person you care for must meet certain financial limitations.

Under this program, you don't have to be a family member to be a caregiver. However, the caregiver and the person receiving care must agree to a caregiver-recipient relationship.

How do caregivers get paid? 

The program helps subsidize the cost of respite care services, but it's not a free ride. There is a lifetime maximum of $7,500 per year for respite services for each applicant. Additionally, a co-payment of 20% of the service cost is required. However, there is a possibility of having the co-payment waived if you can demonstrate financial hardship.

Apply for the Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program

Does your family qualify for the Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program? Applying for the program is a straightforward process:

1. Call your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA): There are AAAs located throughout Connecticut. They will address your problems and guide you through the application process.
2. Gather supporting documents: You'll need proof of residency, income, assets, and a doctor's statement confirming the Alzheimer's or dementia diagnosis for the person you care for.
3. Schedule a home visit: An AAA case manager will visit your home to assess your situation and your loved one's needs.
4. Wait for approval: Once your application is reviewed, you'll be notified of the decision.
5. Choose a respite care provider: If approved, you'll be free to choose a qualified respite care provider that meets your needs and preferences. The AAA can provide you with a list of approved providers.

Take care of yourself so you can care for others

Caregiving is hard work. Sometimes, you need to take a break to rest and recharge. The Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program can help. Take a break while a trained caregiver takes care of your loved one for a little while.