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What is respite? The simplest definition of
respite is to say that it is a break or temporary relief. Many know the stress of care
giving, whether it be for a young child with special needs, or an older
person with physical disabilities. Perhaps the caregiver has no family
nearby or no means to hire someone to help out. How can we respond in our communities
to help our neighbors? What
resources are available?
Many models of respite care are in existence. Other states have used these models to develop programs. Some are volunteer based, providing respite care through a network of volunteers who work with an agency. Some are institutions who provide on site care with trained workers. Some are foster parents who provide respite for others. |