Respite Options Available to Family Caregivers in Santa Clara County 

A family caregiver is an unpaid relative, partner, friend, or neighbor who provides physical, emotional, or financial assistance to someone with a chronic illness, disability, or age-related condition. In Santa Clara County, family caregivers can access different respite options in order to have access to in-home care agencies or short-term facility stays to alleviate caregiving stress and prevent caregiver burnout 

Informal family caregivers may qualify for assistance through Sourcewise’s Family Caregiver Support Program, which connects caregivers to respite services, case management, support groups, and community resources. The Caregivers Network by Sourcewise offers short-term care grants up to $1,000 for eligible informal caregivers, with no insurance or income restrictions. 

Care recipients receiving Medi-Cal through Anthem can qualify for Sourcewise Community Supports – Respite. Care recipients must be dependent on care that is regularly provided by an informal caregiver, whether that is a relative, friend, or neighbor. Respite can be provided either in the home or out of the home at an adult day center at no cost to the family.  

Whether paid for out-of-pocket or by Medi-Cal, adult day programs often function as valuable outlets for both older adults and their caregivers. These programs offer social activities, meals, recreation, and supervision during daytime hours, helping older adults stay engaged while their caregivers work or take a much-needed break. 

Lastly, care recipients receiving Medi-Cal can qualify for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS). Available through the Santa Clara County Social Services Agency, this Medi-Cal program helps pay for home care providers to relieve family members or allows the family caregiver to receive financial compensation. 

For more information on family caregiver respite resources, contact a Community Resource Specialist at (408) 350-3200, option 1.