How to apply for Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program for Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers

Who it's for

The Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program helps family caregivers of a Connecticut resident who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. It gives caregivers information, support, and a care plan, and it pays for short-term services for the person with dementia so the caregiver can take a break. You can use a home care agency or hire someone you trust. The program can pay up to $7,500 a year, depending on funding and the person's needs. A care manager helps decide how much support you can get. The person with dementia must meet income and asset limits, and a 20% co-payment is usually required. Call 1-800-994-9422 to be connected to your local Area Agency on Aging.

What you'll need

• Caregiver Program Application (online), or apply by phone
• Proof of legal authority, if you act as the person's conservator, health care representative, or power of attorney

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program for Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need caregiver Program Application (online), or apply by phone, proof of legal authority, if you act as the person's conservator, health care representative, or power of attorney — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Check basic program rules before you apply. The person with dementia must be a Connecticut resident with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. The income and asset test applies to the person with dementia, not the caregiver. The person cannot be on Medicaid or in the CT Home Care Program for Elders.
2. Gather the needed information and documents. Complete the Caregiver Program Application online, or plan to apply by phone. If you act as the person's conservator, health care representative, or power of attorney, gather proof of that legal authority.
3. Apply online or call 1-800-994-9422 to apply by phone. The call will connect you to your local Area Agency on Aging.
4. Work with the care manager after you apply. The program gives caregivers information, support, and a care plan. A care manager helps decide how much respite support you can get based on the person's needs and available funding.
5. Plan for how respite services will be used if approved. You can use a home care agency or hire someone you trust. A 20% co-payment is usually required, but it can be waived for financial hardship.

What to expect: After you apply, the Area Agency on Aging reviews your application and may ask for proof of legal authority if you act for the person with dementia. If the person qualifies, a care manager will help create a care plan and decide the amount of short-term respite support available. Funds depend on available funding. Coverage must be renewed each year.

Renewals

annual