Respite Looks Different for Everyone: Finding the Right Support for You

Respite isn’t one-size-fits-all—and that’s exactly what makes it so valuable.

For caregivers of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), the need for rest, renewal, and support is real. But what that support looks like can vary widely from person to person, family to family, and season to season.

The good news? There are more options than many people realize—including right here at Covey.

What Does Respite Really Look Like?

For some, respite might mean a few quiet hours each week to run errands, attend appointments, or simply recharge. For others, it could be overnight support—or even an extended break.

At Covey, respite is designed to meet families where they are. That might look like:

• A few hours of care during the day or evening
• Overnight stays for added support
• Extended respite for up to 28 days when families need time away

But respite doesn’t always look like someone stepping in to provide direct care.

Sometimes, it looks like:

• A healthy meal kit arriving at your door
• Help with laundry or housekeeping
• Snow removal in the winter or lawn care in the summer
• Technology that reduces isolation or increases safety
• Sensory tools that support your loved one’s well-being

Respite can also take the form of shared care through a caregiver collaborative, where families support one another and build meaningful connections along the way.

There’s no “right” way to use respite—only what works best for you.

Funding and Support Options to Explore

Understanding how respite can be funded is often the key to accessing it. Here are a few important resources available in Wisconsin:

RCAW (Respite Care Association of Wisconsin)
RCAW offers several grant programs that reflect just how flexible respite can be. You can learn more about available grants here:
https://respitecarewi.org/grants/

• Caregiver Respite Grant Program
  Provides financial support for up to 5 days of respite care within 30 days of approval. Families can choose their own respite provider, and the grant can also be used for emergency respite situations.
• Supplemental Respite Grant Program (SRGP)
  Supports caregivers by covering services that ease daily responsibilities and reduce stress. This may include home modifications, safety or connection technology, housekeeping, laundry, lawn care, snow removal, or sensory items.
• Healthy Meals, Healthy Minds Grant
  Focuses on caregiver wellness by helping families access nutritious meal kits and services that support mental health and overall well-being.

These options highlight an important truth: sometimes the most meaningful form of respite is simply having one less thing to worry about.

IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct)
IRIS is a self-directed program that allows individuals and families to choose how they use their supports—including respite.

CLTS (Children’s Long-Term Support Program)
CLTS provides funding for children with disabilities, including respite services that can support families on an ongoing basis.

Family Care
Family Care supports adults with long-term care needs and can include respite as part of a broader plan.

For adult long-term support services such as Family Care or IRIS, a great first step is connecting with your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). You can find your local ADRC here:
https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/consumer/index.htm

Respite as a Strategy for Well-Being

Too often, respite is viewed as a luxury—something to pursue only when everything else is done. In reality, respite is a proactive and essential strategy for sustaining caregivers and strengthening families.

Whether it’s a few hours, a weekend, or up to 28 days of support through Covey’s respite options, having trusted care in place can make all the difference.

Taking time to rest isn’t stepping away from care—it’s what makes continued care possible.

You’re Invited

If you’ve been thinking about respite but aren’t sure where to start, consider this your invitation to explore. Whether it’s direct care, help around the house, a delivered meal, or a more structured program, support is available—and it can make a meaningful difference.

Respite may look different for everyone.
But everyone deserves the chance to breathe, recharge, and continue forward with strength.

Connect with Covey to explore respite options or ask questions about getting started:  info@covey.org or 920-424-4071.