Frequently asked questions about the Central New York Chapter respite program
The Central New York Chapter provides funds to area agencies on aging in its region to support respite for Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers.
How does the program work?
Each area agency on aging has different procedures, but caregivers in each county should start by contacting their local area agency on aging. The office’s respite coordinator will present the options available and discuss eligibility standards that may exist.
Should I ask for the Alzheimer’s Association respite program?
Each area agency on aging has its own respite program, in which funds are distributed to caregivers who reside in its respective county.
Are there basic rules for the program?
The Chapter requires that the recipient be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. Respite services provided must be appropriate to the level of patient function and caregiver need, and be culturally competent. Caregivers can receive up to 120 hours of respite per calendar year, based on the availability of funds.
Can I use the funds to pay for emergency respite care, such as an overnight stay at a participating long-term care facility?
Yes, though the costs may exceed your individual respite award. Discuss these options with the area agency on aging to determine what options may be available to resolve your situation.
Could I use the funds to pay for respite in another city, such as hiring a home health aide while traveling to a family function?
Yes, though the area agency on aging may have specific policies with regards to whom can provide the care and how to submit bills.
Who provides the actual care?
Each area agency on aging has different rules, but generally care is provided by trained volunteers or paid care practitioners. Care is available in-home or in the community, such as a social adult day program, where available. The Alzheimer’s Association and area agencies on aging maintain lists of respite providers.
Where does the funding come from?
New York State created the Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Support Initiative in 2016. The Alzheimer’s Association, Central New York Chapter was one of the agencies that received a Regional Caregiver Support Initiative grant, which provides respite funding to local area agencies on aging to supplement current respite programs.
