State Road Medical Respite Program

The daily challenges of caring for an individual with complex disabilities can be stressful and overwhelming. Thanks to Mary Cariola’s Medical Respite Program, families now have an option to get a reprieve from care giving and enjoy time to regenerate.

Our State Road Residential Home in Webster now offers a unique respite opportunity for children and young adults with complex medical needs. The House Manager, a Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP), and Residential Nurse work together with families to develop and implement Plans of Nursing Service, Individualized Protective Oversight Plans, and ensure staff are trained on medication administration, medical treatment implementation and individual special cares and directives. Respite guests enjoy participating in the daily routine and events that residents of the home partake in (i.e. community outings, music therapy, parties, etc.). They attend school or day program according to their daily schedule.

Comments from families who have participated in the program speak volumes to the need and benefit of the program.

“It is one thing to have this ‘medical respite dream’ for our daughter……the ability to leave Megan in capable hands in a comfortable, home-away-from-home setting while we enjoy a break from her care. The reality of the medical respite program at the State Road home is on the next level. I cannot find the appropriate words to express what I am feeling in my heart at this moment, but you all have developed and implemented a program that provides us peace of mind and the opportunity to fully enjoy a much needed break from time to time, knowing that Megan is ‘living the dream’ in accessible, non-institutional accommodations that beat what she has in her own home! What an amazing gift.”

Respite stays may occur anytime throughout the year. It serves as a ‘home away from home’ for families and loved ones who may need a short term visit or stay that has both medical and habilitation supports. The staff pattern is one-to-one. Care Managers seek to obtain approvals through the local regional office. It is funded through Medicaid.

Families/Care Managers may contact Mary Ellen Bills at Mbills@marycariola.org for more information.