Recognizing the need for support, the Kansas Respite for Alzheimer’s and Dementia program was developed to provide temporary relief to unpaid caregivers who care for individuals  with a probable diagnosis of these conditions. K-RAD is a resource for family caregivers who have limited access to respite care and/or other supports through current systems.

This program is on its second year of a pilot program. K-RAD has updated its contract with several key changes. Definitions for Alzheimer’s Disease or Related Disorders, medical certification and respite care have been revised for clarity and flexibility. Medical certification for eligibility can now be any written statement from a qualified health provider, expanding access.

A new service category, “Respite Other,” has been added to allow for more diverse support. The re-application process and respite coordination responsibilities have also been clarified. A caregiver that used the service for her mom said the program fills in the gaps. “K-RAD has given me a break to restore my mental and physical self while knowing that my mom is taken care of. It gives me peace of mind.”

Please contact Johnson County Area Agency on Aging at 913-715-8861 with any questions. The caregiver application process is online at jocogov.org/krad.