Respite care providers (at least 16 years old) are available in the CARING NETWORK to assist families. They will have all types and levels of training and/or experience. Some will have degrees in geriatrics, special education, and nursing or be Certified Nursing Assistants. Others will have attended the Caring Communities Caring Teens or Respite Cares! training programs. Some have experience and training with disabilities such as autism or cerebral palsy, or be a sibling of an individual who has a disability. There will also be people in the CARING NETWORK who just want to help and have little or no experience. CARING NETWORK providers may have additional training like sign language, geriatrics, CPR and current background checks, and some will not. It is important for the those using the list to establish what level of training is required, or they are comfortable with, to care for their loved one.
PLEASE NOTE: AGENCIES THAT PROVIDE RESPITE CARE SERVICES MAY SIGN UP IN THE CARING NETWORK, TOO!