How to Find and Access Respite Services for Dementia Carers

Introduction

Caring for someone with dementia is an act of love and dedication, but it can also be exhausting and overwhelming. Without a break, many carers experience burnout, fatigue, and emotional distress. That's where dementia respite services come in – providing vital relief to carers while ensuring that their loved ones continue to receive the care they need. In this article, we'll explore how to find and access respite care in Australia, what options are available, and how to choose a service that suits your situation.

An Omnicare Client and carer enjoying a day out

What Are Dementia Respite Services?

Dementia respite services are short-term care arrangements designed to give primary carers a temporary break from their responsibilities. These services support the wellbeing of both the carer and the person living with dementia by providing professional, compassionate care in a safe environment.

There are several types of dementia respite services available in Australia:

• In-home respite care: A care worker visits the home to provide care for a few hours or overnight, allowing the carer to rest, attend appointments, or go out.

• Centre-based day respite: Day programs at community centres that offer structured activities and social engagement.

• Residential respite care: Short stays in an aged care home (usually up to 63 days per financial year), often used when carers need extended breaks.

• Emergency respite: Unplanned care arranged when an urgent situation arises, such as the carer falling ill or experiencing a crisis.

  
  

Why Respite Care Matters for Dementia Carers

Caring for someone with dementia can be all-consuming. Many carers put their own health and wellbeing on hold, leading to emotional exhaustion and physical decline. Regular respite is essential to avoid carer burnout and ensure long-term sustainability of the care relationship.

Benefits of respite care include:

• Time for self-care, rest, or other responsibilities

• Reduced stress and improved mental health

• Strengthened relationships through healthy boundaries

• Continued quality of care for the person living with dementia

By allowing carers to recharge, dementia respite services help create a more balanced and supportive care arrangement.

When Should You Consider Respite Care?

Recognising the need for a break is crucial. Often, carers wait until they're already overwhelmed before seeking help. Here are some signs that it might be time to consider respite care:

• Constant fatigue, trouble sleeping, or declining health

• Feelings of isolation, resentment, or depression

• Difficulty managing daily tasks or appointments

• A desire to travel, attend events, or manage personal responsibilities

  
  

You don’t have to wait for a crisis. Planned, regular respite can prevent emergencies and help you stay well for the long term.

Where to Find Dementia Respite Services in Australia

Australia has a range of respite services provided through government-funded programs, not-for-profit organisations, and private care providers. Some of the most trusted avenues for finding dementia respite care include:

• My Aged Care: The Australian Government's main portal for aged care services. Offers information on respite options, eligibility, and how to apply.

• Carer Gateway: A national service that provides emergency respite and carer support. Can help arrange short-term care in urgent situations.

• Omnicare Alliance: A trusted provider of dementia-specific respite, in-home care, and day programs across the Mid North Coast of NSW. Learn more

• Local councils and community centres: Many offer day programs and carer support groups.

  
  

How to Access Respite Services

Accessing respite services can feel complex but breaking it down into steps helps make the process manageable. Here's how to get started:

Step 1: Register with My Aged Care

Call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au to register. You’ll need details about the person receiving care, including their Medicare card.

Step 2: Get an Aged Care Assessment (ACAT/ACAS)

An Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT in most states, ACAS in Victoria) will visit to assess the person’s needs. This is essential for accessing government-subsidised residential respite and Home Care Packages.

Step 3: Develop a Care Plan

Based on the assessment, a care plan will be created outlining the services your loved one is eligible for. Respite care can be funded through:

• Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) for low-level needs

• Home Care Packages (HCP) for more comprehensive care

Read how to apply for a Home Care Package here

Step 4: Choose and Book a Service

With your care plan in place, you can contact providers, compare services, and book care. Be sure to check:

• Availability (some centres have waitlists)

• Staff qualifications

• Environment and activities offered

• Cultural or language preferences

  
  

Step 5: Use and Review

Use the respite care and assess how it worked for you and your loved one. Was it beneficial? Would a different type or provider be better suited?

Tips for Choosing the Right Respite Provider

Not all respite providers offer the same quality of care. Here are some factors to consider:

• Specialisation in dementia care: Staff should be trained in dementia-friendly approaches.

• Environment: Is the setting safe, calm, and welcoming?

• Feedback: Look for reviews or testimonials from other carers.

• Accreditation: Government-accredited services meet quality standards.

  
  

Trust your instincts. If it doesn't feel right, keep looking until you find a provider that suits your needs and values.

Common Barriers and How to Overcome Them

Many carers hesitate to use respite services for emotional or practical reasons. Here are some common concerns:

"I feel guilty for taking a break."

Remind yourself that caring for someone long-term requires you to care for yourself, too. Respite isn't abandonment—it's part of a healthy care plan.

"I don’t know where to start."

Start by calling My Aged Care or speaking to your GP. You don’t need to navigate the system alone. Omnicare and other organisations can help guide you through it.

"It costs too much."

Government funding helps cover the cost of respite care for eligible individuals. Residential respite, for example, is often subsidised under a Home Care Package or CHSP.

Find out how the new Support at Home program may impact your access

Conclusion

Respite care isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity for many dementia carers. With the right support and planning, you can find a service that gives you time to rest, recharge, and continue providing care with compassion.

Whether you need help for a few hours, a few days, or in an emergency, dementia respite services offer a practical and supportive solution.

To learn more, reach out to My Aged Care, your GP, or trusted providers like Omnicare, who specialise in dementia care across the Mid North Coast.

Your wellbeing matters just as much as your loved ones. Help is available, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Helpful Resources:

• My Aged Care Respite Options

• Carer Gateway

• Omnicare Dementia Services

If you found this article helpful, share it with a fellow carer or bookmark it for future reference.