Respite Care offers the primary caregiver with temporary relief (i.e., a break) from providing continuous support and care to an older adult or an adult with a disability. Respite Care is a service available through the South Dakota Caregiver Program.
Respite Care through the SD Caregiver Program may include:
- Providing companionship to the care receiver
- Involvement in the person's activities of daily living
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Completing personal hygiene tasks
Eligibility
Eligibility for Respite Care through the South Dakota Caregiver Program is determined based on a caregiver assessment completed by a Long Term Services and Supports Specialist in consultation with the primary caregiver. A caregiver assessment helps to determine the need for Respite, i.e., number of hours and frequency. Respite Care is available to the primary caregiver to run errands, take a vacation and other times during which the caregiver can take a respite from caregiving.
Selection of Respite Providers
The primary caregiver has the responsibility to identify and select a Respite Care provider. A Respite provider may be a neighbor, family member, or friend who has agreed to provide care to the care receiver. A Respite provider can also be an agency that offers Respite Care. Respite Care may be provided in the caregiver’s home, the respite care provider’s home, or in another type of community setting, such as an adult day program, or assisted living center or nursing facility that offers Respite Care. A Respite Care provider may not live with or be considered the individual’s primary caregiver.
Who do I contact for more information on the Respite Care available through the South Dakota Caregiver Program or to access long term services and supports in South Dakota?