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"My mom has Alzheimer's disease and my sister and I are exhausted from caring for her every day!" The job of being a full-time family caregiver is frequently difficult and stress-ridden. The State of New York recognizes the value of home care for aged and chronically ill individuals, and also recognizes the problems full-time caregivers encounter. Through Respite Care, full-time caregivers are offered some relief from their round-the-clock responsibility.Who is eligible for Respite Care? Any resident of Syracuse or Onondaga County who is providing full-time care for a person over sixty years of age. Any resident of Syracuse or Onondaga County who is over sixty years of age and providing full-time care for a chronically ill or disabled younger person. What is the purpose of Respite Care? Respite Care is a way for families and caregivers in Syracuse and Onondaga County to take a needed break from the full-time responsibilities that are part of providing care at home for a loved one. How long is Respite Care provided? Respite Care is available for a period of twenty-four hours, a few days or a few weeks of continuous care, up to six weeks per year. Respite Care can also be provided on an ongoing basis for a few hours each week. What are the reasons for a family wanting Respite Care? The reason for a family or caregiver seeking Respite Care is not important in qualifying for service. A family member or caregiver may go out-of-town for business or pleasure, tend to personal needs or emergencies, go on vacation, or simply not be able to provide proper care for a period of time. The only truly important reason for Respite Care is the family's need. How is Respite Care provided? Respite Care can be provided in several different ways. The type of care offered is determined by the Respite Coordinator and the caregiver with assistance from a Community Health Nurse or a residential facility, when needed. Respite Care can be provided in the home or outside of the home.  COMPANIONS—These individuals can provide care for a few hours each week or 24 hours a day. They are trained people who can handle routine housework, shopping, cooking, etc., and offer companionship to those they are caring for. HOME HEALTH AIDES—In addition to providing the same type of service as the companion, home health aides can offer a higher level of personal care for those who need this type of care, such as assisting with medications, transfers, ambulation and personal care. Home health aides have undergone seventy-five hours of classroom and clinical training approved by the New York State Department of Health. They have the ability to assist with a plan of care ordered by a nurse or doctor.  ADULT HOMES AND NURSING HOMES— When a different level of care may be advisable, the Respite Coordinator will offer families the option of temporarily placing their relative in a licensed adult home or nursing home. Arrangements have been made with the following adult homes and nursing homes to accept Respite Care clients:
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