Annapolis, MD (July 22, 2020) - With the goal of providing a lower-cost alternative to allow older adults and individuals with a disability to remain in their homes, the Anne Arundel County Respite Care Referral Program (RCRP) maintains a registry of self-employed caregivers. Clients and their families who are looking for assistance with meal preparation, shopping, transportation to doctors' appointments, bathing, and other daily activities will be provided with names and phone numbers of registry members. As self-employed contractors, respite care workers negotiate with and are paid directly by the client.

Respite care workers are expected to provide personal and supportive in-home services. Workers assume responsibility for the health, safety, and mental well-being of the client. Workers perform tasks that are needed to maintain the client in his/her home and assure a safe and sanitary environment.  Workers are alert to changes in the client's status that may require further intervention of health professionals. 

All respite care workers undergo a criminal background check and complete a two day training. All respite care workers are also required to complete additional training through the Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities annually. 

Any resident of Anne Arundel County in need of respite care or family caregivers who care for Anne Arundel County residents are eligible for this program. There are no age or income requirements. If interested in hiring a respite care worker, call 410-222-4377. 

Anyone interested in joining the Respite Care Referral Program as a respite care worker, can download an application from our website at www.aacounty.org/aging or can call 410-222-4377.

Anyone needing accommodations must contact Mary Chaput at 410-222-4339, or by e-mail at agchap01@aacounty.org.  TTY users, please call via Maryland Relay 7-1-1.  All materials are available in an alternative format upon request.