Respite care for family caregivers in Alabama

People on the Elderly and Disabled Waiver who cannot care for themselves, for short-term care at home when the people who normally provide the care are absent or need relief. Respite is not an entitlement: it is based on the person's needs and the care the primary caregiver provides.

Payment is not made for respite furnished by a member of the recipient's family, and respite cannot be used for continuous care while the primary caregiver works or attends school.

Source: Alabama Administrative Code Chapter 560-X-36, Home- and Community-Based Services for the Elderly and Disabled (Alabama Medicaid Agency, effective June 12, 2023)Checked Nov 2, 2026

No more than 720 hours or 30 days per waiver year (October 1 through September 30).

Source: Alabama Administrative Code Chapter 560-X-36, Home- and Community-Based Services for the Elderly and Disabled (Alabama Medicaid Agency, effective June 12, 2023)Checked Nov 2, 2026

Primary family caregivers of frail adults age 60 or older; relative caregivers age 55 or older (not parents) caring for children 18 and younger; and relative caregivers and parents age 55 or older caring for adults age 19 to 59 with disabilities. Respite is available for the caregivers with the greatest burden and highest need of relief, because funding is limited.

Income will not keep you from receiving services, but caregivers with the greatest social and economic needs are given priority for direct services.

Source: Alabama CARES (Alabama Department of Senior Services)Checked Nov 2, 2026