Lifespan Respite Vouchers
Lifespan Respite Vouchers
Giving caregivers time to rest, recharge, and continue providing compassionate care.
Program Overview
Respite care provides primary caregivers with a short-term break from the hands-on responsibilities of caring for a loved one. Care may take place at home, in a healthcare facility, or at an adult day center. This break allows caregivers time to focus on their own well-being, enjoy personal activities, and recharge.
The NC Lifespan Respite Program offers up to $750 per calendar year in reimbursement vouchers for respite care services to eligible family caregivers who provide unpaid care to individuals of any age.
For more information, contact Tammy Nelson at [email protected] or (828) 265-5434 ext. 139
Eligibility Requirements
Caregiver must:
- Be at least 18 years old;
- Be a North Carolina resident;
- Provide unpaid care for an older adult (60+) or an adult or minor of any age with disabilities who requires regular assistance with activities of daily living; and
- Not be receiving ongoing, publicly funded in-home or respite care services, including adult day care (waiting list is acceptable).
Priority is given to caregivers who:
- Have the greatest economic need.
- Provide direct care to their family member.
- Have not received publicly funded respite within three (3) months of applying (exceptions may apply for emergency or extenuating circumstances).
How It Works
Applications for the Lifespan Respite Program are completed by a health or human services organization (referring agent), not by caregivers.
Eligibility Pre-Check
Complete a quick pre-check to determine if the caregiver may qualify.
Application
A health or human services organization (referring agent) must:
- Complete the online application on behalf of the caregiver.
- Assist with the Caregiver Certification Form.
- Upload the signed Caregiver Certification Form into the application.
Processing & Approval
Once received, High Country Area Agency on Aging will:
- Review the application and provide additional instructions.
- Send an award packet to approved caregivers, including:
- Award letter authorizing up to $750 in respite care, and
- Reimbursement forms to be completed and returned.
Using the Voucher
Caregivers must:
- Use voucher funds within 90 days;
- Screen and hire their own respite care provider (the individual must be at least 18 years old, not hold Power of Attorney or guardianship, and not live in the same home as the care recipient);
- Pay upfront if billed before reimbursement; and
- Submit paperwork (Respite Agreement and Record of Respite) within 14 days of the expiration date.
Eligible use of funds include:
- Adult day care
- Overnight respite (home or facility)
- Licensed home care agencies
- Private individual caregivers
- Other flexible options chosen by the caregiver
Ineligible use of funds include:
- Supplanting other respite funding
- Paying for services already being received
- Providing care so the caregiver can go to work
- Housecleaning, yard work, or home maintenance
Reimbursement is Processed
Once received, High Country Area Agency on Aging will review your submitted Respite Agreement and Record of Respite for completeness.
Reimbursements will be processed within five (5) business days of receiving complete and eligible documents.
Apply Now
Ready to apply? Referring agents can begin the application process today.
If you have questions about the Lifespan Respite Program, please contact Tammy Nelson at 828-265-5434 ext. 139 or [email protected].
Additional Resources
Not the respite service that you’re looking for? Explore these additional resources: