Respite care: a guide for families
Respite care gives a family caregiver a short break while someone else provides care. This guide covers the kinds of respite, who pays, and how to find a program.
Last reviewed October 27, 2026
General information only. This guide is not medical, legal or financial advice. Talk with a physician, and with an elder-law or financial professional where money or legal papers are involved, about your own situation.
What respite care is
Respite care is short-term care that lets the usual caregiver take a break, whether for rest, work, travel or their own health. The VA describes it as paying for someone to come into the home, or for the person to go to a program, while the caregiver takes time off.
Kinds of respite
Respite comes in a few forms, and many families use more than one.
- In-home respite: a worker comes to the home for a few hours
- Adult day programs: daytime activities and supervision outside the home
- Short stays: a few days or weeks in a residential community or care facility
Who pays
Costs and coverage vary by program and state. The VA offers respite care to some veterans as part of its health benefits. Other families pay privately or find help through state and local programs.
Finding a program
Local agencies on aging, caregiver programs and respite networks can tell you what is available near you. Ask each program about staff training, how care is handed over, and what information they need about the person.
Frequently asked questions
It can be a few hours, a day, or a short stay of several days or weeks, depending on the program and what the family needs.
Some veterans can get respite care through VA health care. Other help may come through state programs, Medicaid in some states, or local agencies; the Eldercare Locator can point you to local options.
No. Respite care exists so caregivers can rest and keep going. Taking a break is part of caring for someone over the long term.
Sources
SeniorLeaf is not affiliated with or endorsed by the organizations listed here.