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 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 crisis.
- 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 Nebraska 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.
Respite Days for 2011:
The Nebraska Respite Network Southwest Service Area offers Respite Days for Respite
families in the area. Respite Days will pay for up to 8 hours of respite care
for any caregiver needing a break. Any caregiver in the service area, currently
receiving or in need of respite care qualifies. Respite Days funds will pay for care of loved ones across the lifespan; Children,
Adults or Elderly. Families may use their own provider (as long as we have necessary
background checks on file) or we can connect them with one in their area. Qualifying
Respite Days for 2012 are: January 6,7,8; February 3,4,5; March 2,3,4; April 6,7,8; June 1,2,3; July 5,6,7; August 3,4,5; September
7,8,9; October 5,6,7; November 2,3,4; December 7,8,9. If you have questions
or concerns, please contact our office at 308.345.4990. Respite Days Reimbursement form must be completed and approved before payment can be made.
Need more information about using respite, qualifying for respite funding sources,
or just wanting more information contact the Respite Coordinator at respite@swhealthdept.com.
FORMS
Complaint Form
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308-345-4223