Caregiver Information

Many families take care of their relatives with disabilities (children, adults, and the elderly) at home instead of placing them in institutions or nursing homes.   Often the family takes on the burden of care alone, without outside help.  Family caregivers are providing 80% of long-term care in the US, worth $257 billion a year, more than the amount spent on nursing home and paid home care combined, according to the national Lifespan Respite Task Force.

Respite care significantly benefits caregivers and recipients of care:

• Research indicates that respite care decreases family stress and improves family functioning, life satisfaction, attitudes toward family members with disabilities, and the physical and emotional health of the elderly.
• Respite care allows caregivers to devote energy and resources to their own health and wellbeing, as well as that of other family members.
• These services provide caregivers additional support when they themselves are experiencing crises.
• Respite care significantly decreases the need for costly out of home placements, such as foster care, hospitalization and nursing home care.

By providing much needed relief to caregivers, respite care significantly reduces cases of abuse and neglect. Respite can occur in many different ways and places depending on the needs of the caregiver and the person they are caring for.  Some examples are:

• Paid or volunteer in home service
• Day service centers for adults or day care centers for children
• Camps
• Schools
• Extended Care Facilities

The Nebraska Respite Network assists with names and phone numbers of respite services the caregiver needs. The Respite Network maintains a list of providers, both individuals and agencies where families in need of help can be referred. Names of professional agencies and/or paid providers as well as volunteer organizations will be listed.

Need more information about using respite, qualifying for respite funding sources, or just wanting more information contact Respite Coordinator.