The Caregiver Respite Program

October 18th, 2022 UPDATE: Visit the Respite for ME $2,000 grants FAQ page

Help provided by unpaid family and friends is often the reason that people with conditions that cause dementia can continue to live at home. Although there are many rewards, these family caregivers can become stressed, and even exhausted, over time. Respite, the opportunity to take a break and have someone else provide the care, is vital to caregiver wellbeing.

The Caregiver Respite Program supports family caregivers by reimbursing some of the costs of having someone else provide care for the person with dementia. This care might take place in the home, at an adult day program, or overnight in a facility (on a limited basis). Respite care is arranged by the caregiver and may be provided by another family member, friend, neighbor, private provider, or someone from a home care agency, or at an adult day program. Respite care enables caregivers the opportunity to take time for themselves, to do what they enjoy or need to do. This program also offers caregivers information and emotional support.

Program Coverage

The Caregiver Respite Program can:

• Allows family caregivers to submit up to $3800 in respite expenses per fiscal year for an 80% reimbursement
• Can help with the cost of in-home care, adult day care, and/or up to two weeks of overnight care in a facility per fiscal year
• Allows a caregiver to apply for a waiver of all or part of the 20% co-payment depending on income and assets
• Can reimburse for home modifications needed to promote independent living (up to $2,000 lifetime) with prior approval from the Program Coordinator 

Eligibility Requirements

• Written diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease/dementia from a physician.
• Liquid assets not to exceed $50,000 for one person, or $75,000 for a couple.
• Not eligible for or receiving assistance from any other state subsidized programs.
• Care recipient must be at least 18 years old and a Maine resident.

The Caregiver Respite program is supported by funds allocated by the State of Maine Office of Aging and Disability Services. Please note that there is often a waiting list for these funds.