 caring for a loved one at home is an act of love but even the most devoted caregivers need a break sometimes thats where respite care comes in a respite stay is a short term stay in a senior living facility designed to give caregivers time to rest travel recover from illness or simply recharge its also a way to provide your loved one with temporary professional care in a safe supportive environment what happens during a respite stay at complete care a respite guest receives the same level of care and attention as a full time resident this includes 24 7 nursing care and supervision assistance with daily activities bathing dressing medications etc meals and nutrition oversight therapy services if needed social activities and opportunities for engagement a comfortable furnished room stays can range from a few days to several weeks depending on your familys needs who can benefit from a respite stay respite care is a great option when youre going on vacation or traveling for work youre recovering from surgery or illness youre feeling burned out and need time to recharge your loved one needs extra support after a hospital stay but isnt ready to return home you want to try out a care setting before considering long term care how can i pay for a respite stay respite stays can be paid for in a few different ways depending on the circumstances medicare in some cases medicare may cover up to 5 days of respite care in a skilled nursing or hospice setting if your loved one qualifies for hospice benefits this must be coordinated through a medicare certified hospice program medicaid some state medicaid programs offer coverage for short term respite care eligibility and coverage vary by state so check with your medicaid plan or our admissions team for guidance private pay many families choose to pay privately for respite stays especially when using it as a planned break or trial experience long term care insurance if your loved one has long term care insurance it may include a respite care benefit review the policy or ask your provider for details veterans benefits eligible veterans may have access to respite coverage through the va ask your va caseworker or contact our admissions team for assistance navigating this benefit a break that benefits everyone respite care isnt just a break for the caregiver its a chance for your loved one to experience expert care social connection and a change of environment that may be refreshing for them too if youre starting to feel overwhelmed or if youre planning time away know this you dont have to do it all alone let us support you 