A Guide to Aged Care Respite in Adelaide
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Quick Summary: Aged care respite provides short-term care breaks for Adelaide carers and their loved ones. Options include residential stays, in-home support, and day programs. You can access up to 63 days of subsidised respite per year through My Aged Care, with emergency options available for urgent situations.
Introduction: What is Aged Care Respite?
Caring for a loved one is a rewarding but demanding role. The constant responsibility can be physically and emotionally exhausting. It’s essential to take a break to rest and recharge—for both your health and the quality of care you provide. This is where respite care can help.
What is respite care? Respite care is short-term care designed to give you (the carer) a break, or to support your loved one when you’re temporarily unavailable due to illness, travel, or simply need time for yourself.
How long is it? Respite care can be for a few hours, a few days, or several weeks, depending on your needs and circumstances.
This guide will explain the different types of aged care respite available in Adelaide, how to get funding, what to do in an emergency, and how to make the most of this essential support service.
The 3 Main Types of Aged Care Respite in Adelaide
Understanding your options helps you choose the right type of respite for your specific situation. Here are the three main types available to Adelaide families:
How to Get Aged Care Respite: The 2 Pathways
Accessing respite care follows two main pathways depending on your situation. Understanding these will help you get the support you need when you need it.
Pathway A: Planned Respite (The Standard Way)
For planned breaks, follow this straightforward process:
Get an ACAT Assessment
To access subsidised aged care respite, your loved one must have an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessment
Call My Aged Care
The process starts by calling 1800 200 422 to apply for the assessment
Receive Approval
Once approved, you get a referral code to book subsidised respite with a provider like Humanity Care
Pathway B: Emergency Respite
For urgent situations where you suddenly can’t provide care, different options are available:
When to Use Emergency Respite:
- Sudden illness or hospitalization of the carer
- Family emergency requiring immediate attention
- Carer exhaustion or burnout requiring urgent intervention
- Unexpected events preventing care provision
Who to Call:
In an emergency, your first call should be to the Carer Gateway at 1800 422 737.
What They Do:
They can help you find emergency respite in an Adelaide aged care home or arrange for in-home carers immediately, often within 24-48 hours.
Aged Care Respite vs. NDIS Respite: What’s the Difference?
This is a common point of confusion for Adelaide families. Here’s a clear comparison to help you understand which system applies to your situation:
| Feature | Aged Care Respite | NDIS Respite (Short Term Respite) |
|---|---|---|
| Who is it for? | Seniors (usually 65+ or 50+ for First Nations people) who are eligible for My Aged Care | People with a permanent and significant disability, aged 7-65, who are NDIS participants |
| How is it funded? | Through the My Aged Care system (e.g., CHSP or residential respite subsidy) | Through your NDIS Plan, specifically your “Core Supports” budget |
| What is it called? | “Respite Care” | “Short Term Respite (STR)” or “Short Term Accommodation (STA)” |
| Primary Goal? | To give the carer a break | To support the participant’s goals (like building independence) while also giving the carer a break |
How Much Does Aged Care Respite Cost in Adelaide?
The cost of respite care is significantly subsidised by the Australian government, making it accessible for most Adelaide families.
Residential Respite (In a Home)
- ✅ No accommodation costs (no RAD or DAP payments)
- ✅ No means-tested care fee
- 💰 You only pay the Basic Daily Fee, set by the government
- 💰 Current maximum: Approximately $65.55 per day (late 2025 rates)
This covers all meals, accommodation, and care during the stay.
In-Home or Centre-Based Respite
- ✅ Subsidised by the government through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
- 💰 Small client contribution for the service
- 💰 Varies by provider and service type
- 💰 Typically $10-$25 per hour for in-home care
- 💰 Day programs usually $15-$40 per day
Many providers offer flexible pricing based on your financial situation.
💡 Financial Assistance for Adelaide Carers
If you’re experiencing financial hardship, you may be eligible for additional support. Speak with your respite provider about fee reductions or contact Carer Gateway about available financial assistance programs for carers in South Australia.
Conclusion: We Can Help You with Your Respite Needs
Whether you need a few hours to yourself or a few weeks to recharge, respite care is a vital service that benefits both you and your loved one. Regular breaks help prevent carer burnout and ensure you can continue providing quality care long-term.
The key is to get assessed before you need it, so you’re ready to access respite when you do. Don’t wait until you’re exhausted or facing an emergency—plan ahead for the breaks you deserve.
Take the Break You Deserve with Humanity Care Australia
Humanity Care Australia provides a range of compassionate aged care services in Adelaide, including in-home and community respite. Our local team understands the unique needs of Adelaide carers and their families.
If you have been approved for a Home Care Package or CHSP, contact our team today. We can help you understand your respite options and arrange the break you need to recharge and continue providing the best care for your loved one.
Frequently Asked Questions About Respite Care in Adelaide
1. How far in advance should I book respite care?
For residential respite, aim to book 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during school holidays or peak periods. For in-home respite, 1-2 weeks’ notice is usually sufficient, though many Adelaide providers can accommodate last-minute requests when possible.
2. Can I use my 63 days of respite all at once?
Yes, you can use your 63 subsidised days consecutively if needed. However, extended stays require approval from the aged care home and may be subject to availability. Many carers prefer to use their days in smaller blocks throughout the year.
3. What should I pack for a residential respite stay?
Pack similar to a hotel stay: comfortable clothing, toiletries, medications, any mobility aids, and personal items. Most facilities provide bedding and towels. It’s also helpful to bring a list of emergency contacts and medical information.
4. Can I try a facility with respite before committing permanently?
Absolutely. Respite stays are an excellent way to trial a facility before making a permanent move. It allows your loved one to experience the environment, staff, and routines, helping you make a more informed decision about long-term care.
5. What if my loved one doesn’t want me to use respite care?
This is common. Frame respite as a positive experience for them—an opportunity to socialize, try new activities, or have professional care. Start with short periods and choose options that align with their interests. Many resistant individuals end up enjoying respite once they experience it.
6. Can I use respite care if I’m not the primary carer?
Respite is designed to support primary carers, but family members can initiate the process if they’re involved in care arrangements. The person receiving care still needs an ACAT assessment, and the primary carer should be involved in planning whenever possible.
Remember: Taking Breaks Makes You a Better Carer
Respite care isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential part of sustainable caregiving. Regular breaks help prevent burnout, reduce stress, and maintain your physical and mental health. By taking time to recharge, you’re ensuring you can continue providing the compassionate care your loved one deserves.
Adelaide offers excellent respite options through qualified providers like Humanity Care Australia. Don’t hesitate to explore these services and give yourself the support you need to thrive in your caregiving role.