Creating Respite Where It Doesn’t Exist: A “Gap-Filling” Person-Centered Approach to Respite

This presentation was part of the Lifespan Respite Track at the 2021 Virtual International Short Break Conference cohosted by ARCH

Presenters

Jamie Ahumada, Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division, NV
Cheryl Dinnell, Nevada Lifespan Respite Care Coalition, NV,

Through a pilot program funded by the Administration for Community Living’s Lifespan Respite Care Program, the presenters shared what it takes to provide respite to unserved and underserved populations across the lifespan of caregivers. Nevada’s Lifespan Respite Rx pilot program is a “self-directed” service model that incorporated a person-centered approach, using the MyLifeCourse Respite portfolio, specifically for caregivers who do not meet eligibility criteria of other programs. Caregivers determined the design and delivery of the respite service. The program not only funds respite but helps a caregiver “create respite where it doesn’t exist” by providing support not typically found in other respite programs. The goal was for caregivers to use respite regularly for one full year. Respite Rx was the prescription; 2-4 hours per week was the recommended dosage. Respite Rx provides valuable insight at the program level to the supportive direct services that caregivers prefer. Attendees will get to see how the MyLifeCourse Respite Portfolio tool and other supports helped tailor respite to the caregiver’s and care recipient’s needs.