February 7th, 2023
Caring for a loved one can be incredibly rewarding—but it can also be overwhelming. As a family caregiver, it’s important to take time to rest and recharge. Still, finding a break that works for you and your loved one isn’t always easy. Whether it’s cost, trust, or simply knowing where to begin, barriers can get in the way.
To help, we’ve put together a quick guide to different types of respite care. You’ll find a mix of options to explore, including pros, cons, and insider tips—plus ideas to help make care more affordable.
Many home care companies offer respite services. You’ll work together to build a care plan and schedule. In addition to companionship and personal care, some caregivers may help with light housekeeping.
Pros:
✔️ Caregivers are typically background checked, drug tested, bonded, and insured
✔️ Flexible care tailored to your loved one’s needs
Cons:
❌ Cost can be high, and agencies often require a minimum number of hours per visit
Helpful Tip:
Check out our Connect guide for a full article on what to ask when hiring a home care agency.
You can also hire an independent caregiver—through websites like care.com or personal recommendations from friends, neighbors, or faith communities.
Pros:
✔️ Often more affordable than an agency
✔️ Can offer a more personal, consistent relationship
Cons:
❌ No backup coverage if the caregiver can’t come
❌ May not be bonded or insured
Helpful Tip:
Always do a background check and ask about credentials, training, and references.
Sometimes the best help is already around you. Don’t hesitate to say yes to offers of support—just be specific when asking.
Pros:
✔️ Usually free or low-cost
✔️ Your loved one likely already knows and trusts them
Cons:
❌ Support may be inconsistent or depend on others’ schedules
Helpful Tip:
Use tools like Lotsa Helping Hands or Inacare to coordinate care and let friends sign up for shifts.
These community-based centers offer daytime care in a social setting, often with dementia-friendly activities. Programs may run on a regular schedule, such as a few days per week.
Pros:
✔️ Engaging activities like music, games, and social time
✔️ Great for both mental stimulation and caregiver relief
Cons:
❌ You may need to arrange your own transportation
Helpful Tip:
Many programs offer sliding scale fees. Visit our Caregiver Resources page to find local adult day centers.
We partner with trusted community organizations that offer short-term respite through trained volunteers:
Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers (Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair)
Livingston County Catholic Charities
Monroe County Opportunity Program
Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County
Pros:
✔️ Free care provided by caring, trained volunteers
✔️ Often linked to other helpful support services
Cons:
❌ Limited hours; volunteers typically provide companionship only
Helpful Tip:
Call our Resource Center at 800-852-7795 to learn about current options.
If you need to travel or take extended time off, some licensed care facilities (like adult foster care homes or nursing homes) offer temporary stays.
Pros:
✔️ Gives caregivers the ability to fully disconnect and recharge
✔️ Safe, professional care environment
Cons:
❌ Requires advance planning and coordination
Helpful Tip:
Call our team at 800-852-7795 for referrals to respite-friendly facilities near you.
Respite Care Grants:
Some condition-specific organizations provide financial assistance:
Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter
Visit their site or call 800-272-3900
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Resource Committee (St. Clair County)
Offers local respite care grants
AgeWays In-Home Care Programs:
We manage two state-funded programs that can help cover the cost of respite:
MI Choice Medicaid Waiver
For adults 65+ and people with disabilities who meet financial and medical eligibility
(Income limit: $2,542/month; Asset limit: $2,000)
Community Living Program
For adults 60+ who need help with daily tasks to remain at home. No income limit, but the program prioritizes those with the highest need.
Note: Both programs currently have waitlists. Call us at 800-852-7795 to learn more.
Veteran’s Benefits:
If your loved one is a wartime veteran (or their spouse/surviving spouse), they may qualify for an Aid & Attendance pension, which can help cover respite services at home or in an adult day center.
Visit our online Caregiver Resource List or call the AgeWays Resource Center at 800-852-7795 for personalized support.
