Caring for a family member with a developmental disability is one of the most loving, demanding, and selfless things a person can do. But caregiving — no matter how much you love your family member — is exhausting. The physical demands, emotional weight, and constant vigilance can wear even the strongest caregiver down over time.
That’s exactly what respite care is designed for. And yet, many NJ families don’t know it exists, don’t know they qualify for it, or feel guilty about using it. This guide will change that.
What is Respite Care?
Respite care is planned or emergency temporary care provided to an individual with a disability, giving their primary family caregiver a scheduled break. It can range from a few hours a week to several days at a time, depending on the family’s needs and available funding.
Think of it like this: even the most dedicated pilot needs a co-pilot. Respite care is that co-pilot — a trained, caring professional who steps in so the primary caregiver can rest, recharge, attend to other responsibilities, or simply breathe.
💛 A vital truth: Taking a break is not abandoning your family member. It is protecting your ability to continue caring for them at your best. Respite care makes you a better caregiver.
Types of Respite Care in New Jersey
In-Home Respite
A trained support worker comes to your family member’s home and provides care while you take time away. This is the most common type and causes the least disruption to your loved one’s routine, since they stay in a familiar environment.
Day Program Respite
Your family member attends a structured day program during daytime hours. These programs often include recreational activities, skills development, and socialization — making them beneficial for the individual as well as the caregiver.
Emergency Respite
Unplanned care that steps in during a family emergency — a hospitalization, a sudden work obligation, or a personal crisis. Providers like GoldenGreys aim to respond quickly in these situations.
Planned/Scheduled Respite
Regular, pre-arranged respite on a weekly or bi-weekly schedule. Many families find that a consistent respite schedule — every Tuesday afternoon, for example — is the most sustainable model.
How is Respite Care Funded in NJ?
For families enrolled in NJ DDD’s Supports Program Waiver, respite care is a covered service. This means the cost is paid through Medicaid funding — families pay little to nothing out of pocket for approved respite hours.
The number of hours available depends on the individual’s assessed needs as documented in their Individual Service Plan (ISP). Families can advocate for more hours during ISP meetings if their current allocation is insufficient.
Who Provides Respite Care?
Respite must be provided by a DDD-approved provider. This is why choosing the right provider matters so much. You want someone who is:
- Fully trained in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities
- Reliable — showing up on time, every time, without exception
- Communicative — keeping family members informed
- Person-centered — focusing on the individual’s preferences and comfort
- Trustworthy — someone the individual genuinely looks forward to seeing
Common Concerns Families Have About Respite Care
“My family member will be upset when I leave.”
This is natural the first few times. A good respite provider will work to build a rapport with your family member before the first solo session, so the relationship is already established before you step away.
“I feel guilty taking time for myself.”
This feeling is understandable — and worth examining. Caregiver burnout is real, and it affects the quality of care your family member receives. Respite care protects both of you.
“I don’t know how to ask for this.”
Start with your Support Coordinator if you’re already enrolled in DDD. Or call GoldenGreys directly — we can help you understand what you qualify for and how to access it.
GoldenGreys Respite Services
GoldenGreys provides both in-home respite and planned respite services across Middlesex, Union, and Somerset Counties. Our respite workers are trained, background-checked, and genuinely passionate about the work they do. Many of our clients’ families describe our respite team as “extended family.”
We also offer emergency respite coverage for unexpected situations — because life doesn’t always give notice.