What Is Respite Care? A Guide for South Dakota Family Caregivers
Respite care is short term care that steps in so a family caregiver can step away. It can be a few hours while you attend a school program, a regular weekly block, or several days at a time. At Kore Cares we provide respite care across South Dakota, and the schedule is built around your family rather than the other way round.
What respite care covers
Caring for someone you love is one of the most meaningful things you can do, and also one of the most demanding. Respite care gives you a real break while your loved one stays in good hands.
Our respite care services can include:
Companionship and conversation
Assistance with personal care
Meal preparation
Light housekeeping
Medication reminders
Transportation to appointments or errands
Help with daily activities
Whether it is a one time visit or recurring care, we work with your family's schedule to provide the support you need. It sits alongside the rest of our in home care services.
Why taking a break matters
Many family caregivers feel guilty about stepping away, even for a short time. The truth is, taking care of yourself is not selfish. It is essential.
When caregivers do not take time to rest, they may experience:
Physical exhaustion
Increased stress and anxiety
Burnout
Difficulty balancing work and family responsibilities
Declining personal health
Taking regular breaks allows you to return to caregiving refreshed, more patient, and better equipped to provide the quality care your loved one deserves.
When families usually call us
A school year starting, with new drop off and pick up times
A work stretch that cannot be moved
A family wedding, funeral or trip
A caregiver who has not had a full night of sleep in weeks
A hospital discharge that changed what a loved one needs
You do not have to do it all alone.
How scheduling works
A few hours, a standing weekly slot, or occasional cover as life gets busy. We build the schedule with you, and it can change when your needs change.
That makes room to:
Attend your child's first day of school or school concert
Focus on work without worrying about your loved one being alone
Take a few hours to relax and recharge
Spend quality time with your family
Keep up with a busy schedule while your loved one remains safe and cared for
Frequently asked questions
What is respite care?
Respite care is temporary in home care that gives a family caregiver a break. A caregiver comes to the home and takes over daily support for a set period, from a few hours to several days.
How long can respite care last?
From a single visit of a few hours up to several days at a time. Many families use a standing weekly block; others call only when something comes up.
Who provides respite care in South Dakota?
Kore Cares provides respite care across South Dakota, including Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Mitchell, Yankton, Brookings, Watertown and Madison. Care is delivered by trained caregivers in the person's own home.
Does insurance pay for respite care?
It depends on the source. Long term care insurance often covers it, some VA benefits apply, and South Dakota has state programs through Dakota at Home. Call us and we will tell you what applies to your situation.
Is respite care only for dementia families?
No. Respite care is for any family caregiver who needs a break, whatever the underlying condition. That includes caring for a spouse, a parent, or an adult child with disabilities.
Talk to someone
Our caregivers are committed to treating every client like family. We serve families across South Dakota, including Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Mitchell, Pierre and Yankton.
Read our frequently asked questions, or contact us to talk it through. You can also start a referral online.
Call: 1-888-546-0704