


Respite care is having someone else take care of a care recipient, while their regular carer takes a break and has time off to relax and recuperate.
The goal of respite care is to give caregivers a rest from their caring duties, so that they don’t experience carer burnout.
Respite care can be pre-planned, or can be organised in an emergency, such as when your primary carer has to go to hospital, has to attend an emergency, or passes away.
Care burnout refers to the experience of feeling stressed, overwhelmed and feeling completely exhausted as a result of caring for someone and not having adequate breaks or rest from caregiving duties.
Carers who experience carer burnout may end up unwell themselves, or may quit their carer responsibilities entirely. The is often a large emotional toll when caring for someone and this can lead to physical and emotional illness if not managed well.
Respite care is an excellent way to have a physical and emotional break and to maintain the carer’s overall wellness
Respite care can be either short-term, or long-term. You have three main options for respite care. They are:
Community Respite Care
There are three different options of community-based respite care: centre-based respite care, cottage respite, or flexible respite.
Respite care in an Aged Care Home
Respite care in an aged care home is available for a few days through to a few weeks at a time. This is the most suitable option if you require more advanced or full time care.
Receiving respite care in an aged care home means that you will receive the same support and experience as full time aged care home residents. You will be given your own room, receive meals, laundry services, and social supports, as well as any other personal care needs/services.
Respite care can be accessed via government subsidies or paid for privately.
When you are assessed by My Aged Care, the assessor will determine whether you are eligible for respite care – and either low level or high level respite care. If you are found eligible, you can access government funded respite care in an Aged Care Home, in your community via CHSP, or in your home via your Home Care Package.
If you are not assessed as eligible for subsidised respite care, you may pay for it privately.
Yes, a Home Care Package can pay for respite care. If your primary carer needs a break from caring, is planning a holiday, or is going to be unavailable to care for you, your Home Care Package funds can pay for respite care.