Respite Care

Respite Care: Support for Family Caregivers

Respite care is a short-term care option that gives family caregivers a much-needed break. Hospice patients are temporarily placed in a Medicare-approved facility, such as a skilled nursing center, where they receive the same high level of hospice care they would at home, including pain and symptom management, emotional support, and spiritual care. This service typically lasts up to 5 consecutive days at a time and is fully covered by Medicare and most insurance plans.

Who Benefits from Respite Care?

• Family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or burned out
• Caregivers who need time for rest, medical appointments, travel, or personal obligations
• Patients who may benefit from a brief change in environment or access to facility-based support
• Families preparing for longer-term care decisions

Respite care helps caregivers return to their role refreshed and better able to provide loving, effective support.

What to Expect from Heartsong Hospice

When respite care is needed, we’ll help you:

• Arrange the stay in a partner facility near your home
• Ensure a smooth transition in and out of respite care
• Maintain consistent oversight by our hospice medical team
• Keep both the patient and family informed and supported

Whether it’s a few days to rest, attend a family event, or simply breathe—we’re here to support you.