San Diego Caregiver Support: Local Respite Resources and Events

Caring for an elderly or disabled loved one is one of the most meaningful things you’ll ever do — and one of the most exhausting.

If you’re a family caregiver in San Diego, you’re part of an enormous community. Over 53 million Americans provide unpaid care to adults, and more than 60% of caregivers experience symptoms of burnout.

You already know the reality: juggling caregiving with work, family, and your own health. The guilt when you need a break. The isolation when no one around you truly understands what you’re going through.

Here’s what you need to know: Taking care of yourself isn’t optional — it’s essential. And San Diego County offers an exceptional network of resources to help you do exactly that.

This guide covers everything from respite care options to free support services, updated with the latest 2025-2026 information to help you find the help you need right now.

The Reality of Caregiver Burnout: Why Respite Matters

Let’s be direct: Caregiving without breaks leads to burnout. And burnout doesn’t just hurt you — it affects the quality of care you can provide.

The statistics are sobering:

• 33% of caregivers experience clinical depression
• 35% experience significant anxiety
• Nearly 50% report high levels of caregiver burden
• Only 36% of caregivers report “very good” mental health
• The average caregiver spends 25 hours per week on caregiving, with 25% devoting over 40 hours weekly
• Over 40% of family caregivers are the sole caregiver, with no one to share responsibilities

Here’s what research consistently shows: Taking regular breaks makes you a better caregiver. Respite isn’t a luxury or a sign of weakness — it’s a proven strategy to sustain your ability to provide quality care over the long term.

When you step away, even for a few hours, you return with more patience, more energy, and a clearer mind. Your loved one benefits from your renewed capacity to be fully present.

Respite Care Options in San Diego

San Diego County offers several types of respite care to meet diverse needs and circumstances.

In-Home Respite Care

With in-home respite, a professional caregiver comes to your home to care for your loved one while you take a break. This option works well when:

• Your loved one is most comfortable in familiar surroundings
• You need flexible scheduling (evenings, weekends, or short notice)
• Your loved one has mobility challenges or complex care needs
• You want one-on-one attention for your family member

In-home respite can range from a few hours weekly to several days or weeks during emergencies or planned trips. Professional home care agencies like All Heart Home Care provide trained, compassionate caregivers who can step in with minimal disruption to your loved one’s routine.

What to expect: A quality home care agency will match your loved one with a caregiver based on personality, care needs, and preferences. They’ll follow your care instructions, maintain your loved one’s routine, and keep you informed while you’re away.

Adult Day Care Centers

Adult day programs provide supervised care, social activities, and enrichment during the day — typically while you’re at work or handling other responsibilities.

Benefits of adult day care:

• Structured activities and social interaction for your loved one
• Nutritious meals and snacks
• Professional supervision and safety
• Some programs offer transportation
• Specialized programs for dementia and Alzheimer’s

San Diego Adult Day Care Options:

George G. Glenner Alzheimer’s Family Centers

• Specialized memory care day programs
• Therapeutic activities designed for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia
• Highly trained staff in dementia care techniques
• Multiple locations, including Chula Vista

Website: Glenner.org

St. Paul’s Senior Day Program (PACE)

• Structured activities, including exercise, crafts, and social programs
• Door-to-door transportation available
• Comprehensive care coordination
• Part of the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)

Website: StPaulsPACE.org

Many caregivers find that using adult day services on a regular schedule — even just two or three days per week — significantly reduces stress and helps them maintain their work and personal commitments.

Finding Adult Day Care Programs: The San Diego Union-Tribune publishes an annual Eldercare Directory — a free guide to independent living, long-term care, and resources for older adults and caregivers. It includes both nonprofit resources and for-profit businesses specializing in senior services. To obtain a printed copy, call (619) 293-1680 or visit CaregiversSD.com.

Free Caregiver Support Resources in San Diego County

San Diego has one of the strongest caregiver support networks in California. These organizations provide free or low-cost services specifically designed to help family caregivers.

Southern Caregiver Resource Center (SCRC)

SCRC is the leading caregiver support nonprofit in San Diego, serving over 80,000 families annually. Their services are free and available in English and Spanish.

Services include:

• One-on-one caregiver consultations and case management
• Short-term counseling with licensed clinicians
• Peer support groups for emotional connection
• Educational workshops on caregiving skills
• Legal and financial consultations
• Respite care coordination and funding assistance
• Free Caregiver Handbook and online resource library

Phone: 800-827-1008

Website: CaregiverCenter.org

Alzheimer’s San Diego

For families dealing with memory loss, Alzheimer’s San Diego provides comprehensive free programs for both caregivers and their loved ones.

Services include:

• Expert guidance and dementia care planning
• Free classes on communication, behavior management, and safety
• Ongoing support and discussion groups
• ALZ Companions Respite Program — trained volunteers visit your loved one so you can take a break
• Social activities for people living with dementia and their families

Website: AlzSD.org

Caregiver Coalition of San Diego

This coalition brings together multiple organizations to provide education, advocacy, and support for family caregivers.

Offerings include:

• Free caregiver conferences and webinars
• Resource fairs featuring local services
• Downloadable tools, including the Caregiver Handbook
• Information on respite services, legal help, and stress management

Website: CaregiverCoalitionSD.org

ElderHelp of San Diego

ElderHelp supports seniors aging in place and the families who care for them.

Services include:

• Care coordination and case management
• Volunteer transportation assistance
• Educational webinars for caregivers
• Home-sharing program pairing older adults with vetted companions

Website: ElderHelpOfSanDiego.org

Jewish Family Service of San Diego

JFS operates an Older Adult HelpLine connecting caregivers with comprehensive services for seniors. Their programs are inclusive and serve families from all backgrounds.

Services include:

• Care coordination and social services
• Specialized day programs for adults with cognitive impairment
• Minor home modifications (JFS Fix-it program)
• Resources tailored to diverse communities

Website: JFSSD.org

Elder Law & Advocacy

Free legal assistance for San Diego residents over 60 or those caring for someone over 60.

Services include:

• Free legal consultations on elder law issues
• Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program (HICAP)
• Unbiased Medicare information and counseling

Phone: 858-565-1392

San Diego County Family Caregiver Support Program

The County of San Diego’s Aging & Independence Services coordinates multiple caregiver support programs.

Key contacts:

• Respite, counseling, and support groups: Southern Caregiver Resource Center — 800-827-1008
• Legal assistance: Elder Law & Advocacy — 858-565-1392
• Grandparents raising grandchildren: YMCA Kinship Program — 619-281-8313
• Home modifications (Central, South, East County): JFS Fix-it — 858-637-3210
• Home modifications (North County): Interfaith Community Services — 760-504-4486
• General information: AIS Call Center — 800-339-4661

Support Groups and Educational Events

One of the most powerful antidotes to caregiver burnout is connection with others who understand what you’re going through. San Diego offers numerous opportunities for support, education, and community.

Caregiver Support Groups

Support groups provide a space to share experiences, learn from others, and receive emotional support from people who truly understand caregiving challenges.

Types of support groups available in San Diego:

• General family caregiver support groups
• Dementia and Alzheimer’s caregiver groups
• Parkinson’s caregiver groups (through Parkinson’s Association of San Diego)
• Condition-specific support groups
• Virtual and in-person options throughout the county

Both SCRC and Alzheimer’s San Diego host regular support group meetings. Many are free and available in multiple languages. Check their websites for current schedules and locations.

Educational Workshops and Conferences

Throughout the year, San Diego organizations host workshops, conferences, and resource fairs designed to educate and connect caregivers.

What to expect at caregiver events:

• Expert presentations on caregiving techniques, disease management, and self-care
• Panel discussions with healthcare professionals
• Exhibitor booths featuring local services (home care, legal, financial planning)
• Networking with other caregivers
• Free resources and tools to take home

The Caregiver Coalition of San Diego frequently organizes free conferences and resource fairs. Check their website and SCRC’s event calendar for upcoming opportunities.

National Family Caregivers Month (November)

Every November, organizations across San Diego and the nation celebrate National Family Caregivers Month with special events, expanded workshops, and caregiver appreciation programs.

The 2025 theme is “Plug-in to Care” — focusing on helping caregivers connect with vital support tools, trusted networks, and educational resources.

What to look for in November:

• Caregiver appreciation luncheons and events
• Expanded workshop series
• Community gatherings focused on caregiver wellness
• Free webinars from national organizations like Caregiver Action Network
• Special recognition programs and discounts for caregivers

The Caregiver Action Network hosts a “Plug-in to Care” webinar series throughout November, covering topics such as building caregiver-friendly workplaces, finding strength in community, and balancing intergenerational caregiving responsibilities.

Pro tip: While National Family Caregivers Month is in November, you deserve recognition and support year-round. Don’t wait for a special month to reach out for help.

Medicare Advantage Plans with Caregiver Benefits (2026 Update)

If your loved one is enrolled in certain Medicare Advantage plans, caregiver support benefits may be included at no additional cost.

SCAN Health Plan (Available in San Diego County for 2026)

SCAN’s 2026 Medicare Advantage plans include several caregiver-focused benefits:

• Caregiver Respite: Short-term help so regular caregivers can rest
• Alternative Caregiver Services: In-home care when the regular caregiver can’t be there
• Adult Day Care Services: Relief for caregivers while addressing member needs
• In-Home Safety Assessment: Professional evaluation of fall risks and safety hazards
• Home Modifications: Grab bars, non-slip surfaces, handheld showers
• Post-Acute Respite: Up to five days of facility-based respite following hospital discharge or ER visit
• Caregiver Advantage Program: Personalized care plans, resources, one-on-one coaching, and stress management tools for caregivers

Check with your loved one’s Medicare Advantage plan to see what caregiver support benefits may be available.

Signs You Need Respite Care Now

Many caregivers push through until they’re completely depleted. Here are warning signs that you need a break:

Physical warning signs:

• Persistent exhaustion that sleep doesn’t fix
• Frequent illness or worsening of your own health conditions
• Neglecting your own medical appointments
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Physical symptoms of stress (headaches, muscle tension, stomach problems)

Emotional warning signs:

• Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or resentment
• Increased irritability or impatience with your loved one
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities you used to enjoy
• Anxiety or feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks
• Loss of interest in things that used to bring you joy

Behavioral warning signs:

• Using alcohol, food, or other substances to cope
• Neglecting your own responsibilities (bills, housework, relationships)
• Snapping at your loved one or others
• Feeling like you have nothing left to give

If you recognize these signs in yourself, please reach out for help today. Burnout is not a failure — it’s a signal that you’ve been giving more than anyone can sustain alone.

How to Get Started with Respite Care

Taking the first step toward getting help can feel overwhelming. Here’s a simple approach:

Step 1: Assess What You Need

Ask yourself:

• Do I need a few hours weekly, or longer breaks occasionally?
• Would my loved one benefit more from care at home or in a day program?
• What level of care does my loved one require (companionship, personal care, medical supervision)?
• What’s my budget, and are there funding sources I can access?

Step 2: Explore Funding Options

Respite care may be more affordable than you think:

• SCRC Respite Funding: Southern Caregiver Resource Center can fund respite services for qualifying families (subject to availability)
• Medicare Advantage: Some plans include caregiver respite benefits
• Long-Term Care Insurance: Many policies cover respite care
• VA Benefits: Veterans and their caregivers may qualify for respite through the VA Caregiver Support Program
• Medi-Cal: Some programs provide respite coverage
• Private Pay: Even self-funded respite is an investment in your ability to continue caregiving

Step 3: Start Small

You don’t have to commit to extensive care right away:

• Try a few hours of in-home respite while you run errands
• Schedule a single day at an adult day program to see how your loved one responds
• Attend a caregiver support group to connect with others
• Call SCRC for a consultation — there’s no commitment required

Many caregivers find that once they experience the relief of even a short break, they’re more comfortable arranging regular respite.

We’re Here to Help

At All Heart Home Care, we understand the challenges family caregivers face. We’ve worked with thousands of San Diego families navigating the same journey you’re on.

Our respite care services provide:

✓ Flexible scheduling — from a few hours to extended coverage, planned in advance or on short notice

✓ Carefully matched caregivers — we match based on care needs, personality, and preferences

✓ Consistent communication — you’ll know exactly how your loved one is doing while you’re away

✓ Professional, trained caregivers — all of our caregivers are vetted, trained, and supervised

✓ Continuity of care — we follow your routines and care instructions

✓ Peace of mind — so you can truly rest and recharge

Our rates begin at $37/hour, with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.

Call us at (619) 736-4677 for a free consultation.

We’ll talk through your situation, answer your questions, and help you develop a respite plan that works for your family — with no pressure or obligation.

A Final Word: You Deserve Support

As a family caregiver, you’re doing something extraordinary. You’re showing up day after day for someone you love, often at high personal cost.

But here’s the truth that many caregivers struggle to accept: You cannot pour from an empty cup.

Accepting help isn’t a sign of weakness or failure. It’s a recognition that sustainable caregiving requires support — and that you matter too.

San Diego’s robust network of respite services, support groups, and community resources exists specifically to help caregivers like you. These services aren’t a last resort for when things get desperate. They’re tools for maintaining your health, your relationships, and your ability to provide quality care over the long term.

Consider reaching out to an organization in this guide or arranging a trial respite period. Even a few hours can make a meaningful difference in your stress levels and well-being.

Use that time to take a walk on the beach, catch up with a friend, attend your own doctor appointment, or simply rest. When you return, you’ll likely find you have more patience, more presence, and more energy to devote to your loved one.

Caring for yourself is caring for your loved one. You both deserve the best support possible.

Quick Reference: San Diego Caregiver Resources