When you’re caring for a loved one with special needs or a chronic condition, it’s easy to forget about your own needs — until burnout set in. That’s where respite care becomes more than just helpful. It becomes essential.

In Indiana, Medicaid-funded respite care programs are designed to support families like yours. Through structured waiver programs, the state helps caregivers take necessary breaks while ensuring their loved one continues receiving safe, professional care at home or in the community.

At MHC, we provide trained, vetted, and supervised staff to step in when families need relief — so caregivers can rest, recharge, and return with renewed energy.

What Is Respite Care?

Respite care offers temporary, short-term support for individuals who normally receive full-time care from a family member or other unpaid caregiver. The goal is to give the primary caregiver time to rest, attend to personal matters, or simply take a well-earned break — all while knowing their loved one is in capable hands.

Respite care can take place:

• In the home (the most common setting)
• In a community setting (e.g., day programs or habilitation centers)
• Occasionally, in an approved overnight facility

Who Qualifies for Respite Care in Indiana?

Respite care is not a standalone Medicaid program, but it is included as a service in several Indiana Medicaid waiver programs. To qualify, individuals must meet eligibility for one of the following waivers:

1. Family support waiver (FSW)

For individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD) who live at home and need support services.

2. Community Integration and Habilitation Waiver (CIH)

For individuals with I/DD who have more complex needs, including 24-hour care or supervision.

3. Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver (TBI)

For individuals diagnosed with a qualifying brain injury who require home-based care.

4. Pathways / Health & Wellness Waiver

A newer Medicaid option supporting individuals with disabilities in building healthier, more independent lives.

All of these waivers include respite care as an optional service based on the individual’s support plan. MHC is an approved provider under each of these programs.

What Does Medicaid Respite Care Include?

When approved through a Medicaid waiver, respite care may include:

• Personal care (bathing, dressing, meals)
• Companionship and supervision
• Medication reminders
• Mobility and safety support
• Help with routines and social interaction

Please Contact our Care Team for Customized Home Care Services for you or your loved one.

Mercy Home Care provides Respire care in Anderson, Muncie, Kokomo, Pendleton, Fishers, Indianapolis, Zionsville, Carmel, Avon, Noblesville and surrounding areas.