What social security and Medicare benefits are available for respite care?

Medicare will only provide respite in conjunction with Hospice. Hospice is ordered by a doctor during a life threatening illness. The conversation should start with the MD treating the Alzheimer's.

I was going to say the same as pstegman. If you need respite check with you doctor explain the situation and ask for a referrel for home health care or Hospice. Hospice always sounds like a death sentance, but it is not. Hospice is there for support for the family and the patient. Utilize any program you can. I turned down at first then i had a breakdown. The nurse who was coming out for mom immediately called the doctor and suggested Hospice care. As soon as they came out to evaluate I had all sorts of help. After being with Hospice for 90 days you can set up a week of respite.
If you need something sooner. Check with the social worker about getting signed up for any other respite care organizations. If your mom qualifies by income you can receive additional assistance in the form of caregivers, housekeepers, medical supplies. They will provide someone to sit with her so that you can have some time away. Good luck and God Bless.

Check with your local Alzheimer Association. Ours has grant money available for respite care. If yours doesn't have funds maybe they can direct you elsewhere.

Hi there, are you looking for a break from care giving My 81 year old mother has lived with us over a year. We use respite care at a local facility 1 week per month. We pay out of pocket. You don't need a doctor's order for respite, but mom's place did have her have a physical before her first stay. They needed the Doctor's statement regarding her ADLs. My mother does need help with bathing. We have found this beneficial for both of us.