Respite Care
Caring for a loved one with developmental disabilities can be deeply rewarding—but it can also be demanding. Families often need time to rest, recharge, attend appointments, or focus on other responsibilities. Respite Care provides temporary relief while ensuring the individual continues receiving compassionate, safe, and appropriate support.
Canaan Cares offers high-quality respite care that helps reduce stress, maintain family balance, and promote long-term stability in the home. Our respite services are designed to give caregivers the peace of mind they deserve.
Who Qualifies for Respite Care?
Respite is available to individuals who:
- Are eligible for Regional Center services
- Have respite listed in their Individual Program Plan (IPP)
- Require supervision, support, or assistance when the primary caregiver is unavailable
Eligibility is determined by the Regional Center, and the number of respite hours is based on the individual’s needs and family circumstances.
There is no income requirement to receive respite care.
Types of Respite Care
Canaan Cares provides respite care tailored to each individual’s needs and routine.
In-Home Respite
A trained respite provider comes directly to the home to assist with:
- Personal care
- Recreation and leisure activities
- Supervision and safety
- Light household routines
- Communication support
- Behavior or emotional support (within scope)
In-home respite keeps the individual in familiar surroundings, creating comfort and stability.
Community-Based Respite (If Approved in IPP)
Some individuals benefit from community activities during respite time.
When included in the IPP, community respite may support:
- Outings
- Social activities
- Structured recreation
- Access to community programs
All activities remain centered around safety, dignity, and meaningful engagement.
What Is Respite Care?
Respite Care is a short-term service that provides supervision and support for individuals with developmental disabilities when their usual caregiver is unavailable, needs a break, or must attend to personal matters.
Respite ensures that care remains consistent and supportive while giving families necessary time for rest and self-care.
Respite May Be Used For:
- Personal appointments
- Work obligations
- Rest and recovery
- Time with other children
- Important errands
- Family emergencies
- Short-term breaks to prevent burnout
Respite is not a luxury — it is an essential support that strengthens families and protects the well-being of both caregivers and individuals receiving care.
Canaan Cares proudly serves California Regional Centers throughout San Diego, Poway, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, El Cajon, Vista, Solana Beach, Encinitas, La Mesa, and Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, and Riverside Counties.
How to Receive Respite Care Through the Regional Center
1. Discuss Care Needs in the IPP Meeting
Families explain why respite is necessary — such as supervision needs, caregiver burnout, or the need for relief.
2. Regional Center Authorizes Respite Hours
Authorization is based on the level of need and family dynamics.
3. Choose a Respite Provider
Families may select:
- An agency like Canaan Cares
- A family member or trusted individual (if the RC approves)
- A combination of both
4. Begin Services
Once approved, respite may be used flexibly according to Regional Center guidelines.
Canaan Cares supports families by providing qualified, compassionate respite staff who understand individual needs and provide calm, consistent support.
Benefits of Respite Care
For Families
- Reduces stress and burnout
- Improves family harmony
- Provides necessary breaks
- Supports overall mental and emotional health
- Allows time for work, errands, or personal commitments
For Individuals Receiving Care
- Maintains routines and safety
- Offers social interaction
- Increases independence
- Supports emotional well-being
- Encourages engagement through appropriate activities
Respite strengthens the entire family system.
There are many specialty services offered by Canaan Cares. Click here to see all of them.