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Respite care for family caregivers in Florida

Yes. In Florida, family caregivers can get respite through three programs on record: Respite (Long-Term Care Program), Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI) and National Family Caregiver Support Program.

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Respite program

Respite (Long-Term Care Program)

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Who qualifies

Long-Term Care Program enrollees. Respite is short-term care that steps in when the person's usual caregivers are away or need a break, planned or in an emergency. It can be given at home or in an adult day care center.

It is not covered for enrollees who live in a nursing facility or an assisted living facility, though those facilities can provide it to people who do not live there.

Source: Long-term Care Waiver, 1915(c) application FL.0962.R02.03, effective April 1, 2025 (Florida Agency for Health Care Administration)Checked

Respite program

Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI)

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Who qualifies

Caregivers of adults 18 or older who have been diagnosed with probable Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia that affects daily living. Respite can be in-home, facility-based or emergency care, and extended care for up to 30 days.

Caregivers can also get case management, medical equipment and supplies, counseling, support groups and training.

Source: Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI) (Florida Department of Elder Affairs)Checked

Respite program

National Family Caregiver Support Program

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Who qualifies

Adult family members who provide in-home and community care for a person 60 or older, and grandparents or relatives 55 or older raising children 18 or younger or children of any age with disabilities. Respite care is one of the services.

Area Agencies on Aging receive the funds and contract with local providers.

Source: National Family Caregiver Support Program (Florida Department of Elder Affairs)Checked

How to apply

Respite (Long-Term Care Program)

How to apply

If you are enrolled in a long-term care plan, contact your case manager. Plans may provide respite and caregiver training when your long-term care plan approves them. If you are not enrolled yet, call your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) to be screened. The Elder Helpline, 1-800-963-5337, can tell you which ADRC serves you.

Source: Caregiving (Florida Department of Elder Affairs)Checked

Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI)

How to apply

Services come through the 11 Area Agencies on Aging. Call the Elder Helpline below to reach your local Area Agency on Aging and ask about eligibility.

Source: Caregiving (Florida Department of Elder Affairs)Checked

Phone

1-800-963-5337

The Elder Helpline (1-800-96-Elder).

Source: Caregiving (Florida Department of Elder Affairs)Checked

Sources

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