COVID-19 Respite Agency Decision Guide to Reopen Respite Worksheet

Deciding when it’s safe to resume respite care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Developed by the ARCH Workgroup.

The decision to resume respite services is a continuous process that involves thorough assessment, detailed planning, ongoing monitoring, and regular reassessment. Respite care agencies must carefully consider all potential risks, benefits, and barriers before making an informed decision. It is important to remember that information and guidance related to COVID-19 is evolving rapidly. Additionally, depending on where you are located, the risk for exposure may vary and change over time. As a result, it is important to continually monitor and regularly reassess the safety of providing and receiving respite care. You may need to resume services in a step-wise or phased approach and you should be prepared to stop providing respite care services as the situation changes. It is important that all individuals involved in providing and receiving respite care feel comfortable with the decision and are kept in close communication regarding any changes.