About this resource
Region IV Area Agency on Aging, serving southwest Michigan from St. Joseph, offers home-based care options that include respite — the temporary relief care that lets family caregivers rest, work, or attend to their own needs while a loved one is well cared for. For caregivers at risk of burnout, accessing respite through these programs can be the key to sustaining their role.
Respite is woven through several of Region IV’s home-based programs. The MI Choice Medicaid Waiver covers respite among its in-home services for eligible adults who need nursing-home-level care; Care Management can arrange respite as part of a coordinated plan; and the agency’s caregiver supports include respite through the GUIDE Model and Senior Companion programs. Caregivers can also tap related options like Integrated Care at Home and, for those who don’t qualify for subsidized programs, fee-based Custom Care. The agency helps families understand which path fits their situation and finances.
This resource matters because respite is one of the most protective supports a caregiver can have — regular breaks reduce stress, prevent burnout, and often allow a loved one to remain at home longer. Yet many caregivers don’t realize respite may be covered or available through these programs. For southwest Michigan caregivers needing a break, Region IV is the place to ask. Reach the Info-Line at 800-654-2810 (Spanish: 616-816-2580) or email info@areaagencyonaging.org.
What you'll get from this resource
- Region IV AAA offers respite through its home-based care options in southwest Michigan.
- Respite is available via the MI Choice Waiver, Care Management, the GUIDE Model, and Senior Companion programs.
- The agency helps families find the path that fits their needs and finances, including fee-based Custom Care.
- Reach the Info-Line at 800-654-2810 (Spanish: 616-816-2580) or info@areaagencyonaging.org.
Frequently asked questions
Respite is included in programs like the MI Choice Waiver and can be arranged through Care Management, the GUIDE Model, and Senior Companion programs.
Fee-based Custom Care offers private consultation that bypasses subsidized-program wait times.
Call the Info-Line at 800-654-2810 (Spanish line 616-816-2580) or email info@areaagencyonaging.org.
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