The Respite Program helps individuals who are not otherwise eligible by reason of age or financial eligibility for care management and supportive services through the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders.  It is an umbrella program that includes:

1) the Bridge Program, which helps those with short-term need for home care support;
2) the Family Caregiver Support Program, which helps elders and the loved ones who care for them with services that help them take a break; and
3) the Statewide Respite Program, which helps those with Alzheimer's or other dementia.

   Who can call us?

We receive calls from individuals and their caregivers, both local and long-distance.  Those who may benefit from this service include especially:

• Individuals with health problems.
• Individuals with impaired memory or judgment who can no longer safely monitor their medications or finances.
• Caregivers in need of support or respite.

   What services do we offer?

• comprehensive in-home assessment visits with clients and their caregivers designed to assist them in prioritizing concerns and developing a plan of care;
• information and written materials about a range of service options available in the south central region;
• assistance in connecting clients to needed services;
• as needed, monitoring of services over time;
• assistance with determining eligibility for entitlement programs and with all requirements and paperwork; and
• purchase of some services such as home health aide, bath service, homemaker, shopping/escort, companion, chore/handyman, home-delivered, adult day care, and emergency response systems for those in greatest health-related and financial need.
  
  These services are often described as "care management."

   Who is eligible?

• aged 60 and older with loss of function in some activities of daily living (see application above);
• not currently eligible or receiving services from any other care management agency, including the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE); and
• resident in one of the following towns:

   What is the cost for our services?

• Generally, care management services are provided without charge.  Some individuals may, however, be asked to contribute a co-payment toward the cost of any services for which they may qualify. This is dependent on the source of funding involved.