Program Description
The New Jersey Statewide Respite Care Program (SRCP) relieves an unpaid caregiver of his or her caregiving responsibilities by providing trained professionals who supervise or act as a companion to the individual in need of care. The goal of this program is not only to relieve the primary caregiver of his or her caretaking duties, but also to avoid unnecessary nursing home placement of elderly individuals.
Respite care is offered short term in the individual’s home, in adult day care centers, in the homes of the temporary caregiver, or overnight in some locations. The program’s name is somewhat misleading, as the Respite Care Program offers caregivers more than just respite care. Homemaker services and private duty nursing are also potential benefits.
The program also recognizes that many elderly individuals are sensitive to who provides them with assistance. As such, the program allows primary caregivers to select the individual or organization from which they receive care services (within certain guidelines).
This program is administered statewide by the NJ Department of Human Services – Division of Aging Services, but is managed at the local level by the Aging and Disability Resource Connection.
Eligibility Guidelines
General Requirements
Care recipients must:
- Receive daily care due to a functional impairment or frailty by an uncompensated caregiver (spouse, family, friend, etc.) who is 18 or older.
- Have their need for care verified by a medical provider.
- Live in the community (not in a facility).
- Be a resident of New Jersey.
- Not be participating the following programs: MLTSS, JACC, Alzheimer’s Adult Day Services Program, or Congregate Housing Services Program.
Financial Requirements
Income Limits
Monthly income cannot exceed 300% of Federal Benefit Rate (FBR). In 2024, this means the care recipient’s monthly income cannot exceed $2,829, and a married couple’s income cannot exceed $5,658.
Those whose income exceeds this limit may still be offered respite care, but will be required to pay a portion of the cost. A sliding scale based on income determines the amount of one’s co-payment.
Asset Limits
As of 2024, the value of an individual’s financial assets cannot exceed $40,000 if they are single or $60,000 if married. (This excludes an individual’s primary home and personal effects, such as clothes and household items).
Benefits and Services
Respite care can be provided in the care recipient’s home, either for a specific period of time or occasionally as needed. It can also be provided out-of-home, in an adult day care center or other licensed medical facility, such as an assisted living facility or a nursing home. Respite care providers can also offer assistance with other homemaker activities during their visits, such as laundry, meal preparation, and errands.
How to Apply / Learn More
To learn more about the respite care program, one can call the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 877-222-3737, or visit New Jersey’s Division of Aging Services website.
To apply, applicants should call ADRC: 877-222-3737.
