What is Respite Care?

Yes. Short-term stays are available across care levels. Those recovering from surgery or a recent health event can benefit from a stay in a skilled nursing community with added support. Caregivers managing travel plans, life transitions or simply looking to recharge can explore respite care for their loved one—offering comfort, connection and a welcome break.

How much does respite care and short-term skilled nursing cost?

Skilled nursing stays often qualify for coverage through Medicare or health insurance, which can ease out-of-pocket costs. Pricing varies based on the type of care and length of stay. Since skilled nursing includes clinical support, it typically carries a higher cost—reflecting the level of medical care provided.

Respite care brings flexibility and support. Many families use long-term care insurance to help cover respite stays. Coverage can vary, so reviewing your policy details is a smart first step. Pricing depends on the care setting, level of support and whether services are provided in a community or through a Brookdale at Home agency.

Respite can make a difference:

Respite care is a healthy pause. It can help you rest, recharge and keep balance in your life—while your loved one benefits from personalized support and daily routines.
 

It’s helpful for both of you:

Contact Brookdale to get started:

Whether you’re exploring support at home or considering a short stay in one of our communities, our Brookdale team is here to guide you along the way. Together, we’ll talk through what matters most to you.

Our goal is to make the process clear and personal. You’ll have answers to your questions, help with planning and a caring team that tailors the experience for you and your loved one.

Caring for someone is incredibly rewarding, while using significant energy, focus and time. Respite care gives you a moment to step back—whether to travel, recharge or handle something on your own—while your loved one continues to receive compassionate care.

Respite care can provide:

You provide meaningful care every day. Respite services help sustain your ability to do so.

When might respite care be helpful?

You might consider respite care if:

• You need time to travel or address your own health needs

• You’re managing a busy season or other family priorities

• You want to try out care services before deciding on long-term support

• You’re seeking additional support while you rest or focus on your mental health

Services can be arranged once or added regularly, depending on your schedule.

During respite care, a trained professional provides flexible care in the comfort of your loved one’s home or in select Brookdale communties. Each day in respite care is shaped around your loved one’s rhythm and their specific needs.

Services may include:

This gives you peace of mind, knowing your loved one is in capable, caring hands.

Respite can be useful during everyday life or unexpected moments and often begin at about a week long.

Families often use this time to:
 

Yes. If your parent’s needs are a good match for continued support, you could extend either their stay at one of our communities or their support via Brookdale at Home®. Making the choice to extend their care can lead to peace of mind for you and consistent support for your parent. 
 

If after their respite care concludes, and your parent still:
 

Continuing your stay with Brookdale might be the right choice. That way, your parent can get the care they need from staff they know in a familiar place.