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lifespan respite overview
What Is Respite Care?
Respite care is short-term care (planned or emergency) for a child or adult with special needs. It gives family caregivers temporary relief from the demands of caregiving.
Respite care has also been shown to improve several outcomes:
Reduced stress for caregivers
Less fatigue
Higher quality of life for the entire family
Lower social isolation
Better relationships among family members
Respite services can be provided in different settings—including at home, in community programs, or in facility-based environments. Funding comes from multiple sources.
What Does “Lifespan Respite Care” Mean?
Lifespan respite care encompasses care across all ages, from birth through the end of life. By coordinating respite programs across age groups and disability types throughout Wisconsin, more families can find the right services.
RCAW’s Role in Lifespan Respite in Wisconsin
The Respite Care Association of Wisconsin (RCAW) is a nonprofit contracted by the State of Wisconsin to coordinate respite care services at the local and state levels.
RCAW’s work includes:
The Wisconsin Respite Care Registry — a searchable online database where family caregivers can find respite providers
- Respite Care Provider Training (RCPT) — free training to prepare individuals who wish to become respite care professionals.
- Grant porgrams for family caregivers, agencies, and respite care providers.
- Education and resources for family caregivers seeking support in their roles.
The Lifespan Respite Care Act
Lifespan Respite Care programs are coordinated systems of accessible, community-based respite services for primary caregivers of children, adults, and older adults. These programs help:
Reduce duplication of services
Develop and strengthen respite care infrastructure at local and state levels
Improve how respite services are delivered and accessed across life stages and disabilities.
Program Objectives:
Expand and enhance respite services in the state.
Improve coordination and dissemination of respite services.
Streamline access for families.
Fill service gaps where options are limited.
Improve the overall quality of existing respite services.
In 1999, Wisconsin adopted Lifespan Respite Care legislation and contracted with RCAW to administer this program statewide.