How much does respite care cost?
What is respite care?
Respite care is a short-term support service that provides temporary relief for carers of people with a disability, chronic illness, or mental illness. It can be provided in the home, in a residential aged care facility, or as a day program.
Why is respite care important?
Respite care is important for both carers and the people they care for. It can give carers a break from the demands of caring, and it can help people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or mental illnesses to maintain their independence and quality of life.
Who needs respite care?
Respite care can be beneficial for anyone who is caring for someone with a disability, chronic illness, or mental illness. This includes parents of children with disabilities, spouses of people with dementia, and carers of people with mental health conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
How much does respite care cost?
The cost of respite care varies depending on the type of care, the location of the provider, and the length of stay. In Australia, the average cost of respite care is:
- In-home respite care: $35-$50 per hour
- Residential respite care: $250-$400 per day
- Day program respite care: $100-$200 per day
Factors that affect the cost of respite care
Type of respite care
In-home respite care is generally the most affordable type of respite care, followed by day program respite care and residential respite care.
Location of respite care provider
Respite care providers in major cities tend to charge higher fees than providers in regional and rural areas.
Length of stay
Longer stays are typically more affordable than shorter stays.
Level of care required
People who require a higher level of care, such as those with dementia or complex medical needs, are likely to pay more for respite care.
How to pay for respite care?
There are a number of ways to pay for respite care, including:
Government subsidies
The Australian Government provides subsidies for respite care through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and the Aged Care Act 1997.
Private health insurance
Some private health insurance policies cover the cost of respite care.
Out-of-pocket expenses
If you are not eligible for government subsidies or private health insurance coverage, you will need to pay for respite care out of your own pocket.
Tips for finding affordable respite care
Contact your local council
Many local councils offer subsidised respite care programs.
Ask your doctor or other health professional for recommendations
They may be aware of affordable respite care providers in your area.
Check with your private health insurance provider
You may be eligible for private health insurance coverage for respite care.
Negotiate with respite care providers
Some providers may be willing to negotiate their fees, especially if you are booking a longer stay.
Respite care is an important service that can provide carers with a break and help people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or mental illnesses to maintain their independence and quality of life.
If you are a carer in Australia, I encourage you to consider respite care as an option. It can be a great way to take a break and recharge, and it can help you to provide the best possible care for your loved one.
