Guide

Respite care in Tampa: how to find it and pay for it

Burnout is not a personal failing. It is what happens when one person does a job meant for several. Here is where Tampa caregivers can get help.

Published by Aster Care LLC · Last updated November 1, 2026 · Sources listed below

The short answer

Tampa families can start with the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337, which connects to Senior Connection Center for Hillsborough County. Hillsborough County Aging Services at (813) 272-5250 offers sliding-scale in-home services for adults over 60. Medicaid Long-Term Care and iBudget also pay for respite for people enrolled, and private respite is available without a waiting list.

Your options in Hillsborough County

OptionWho it fitsStart here
Community Care for the ElderlyAge 60+, functional limitsElder Helpline: 1-800-963-5337
Alzheimer's Disease InitiativeFamilies living with dementiaElder Helpline
Hillsborough County Aging ServicesAdults over 60, sliding scale(813) 272-5250
Medicaid Long-Term CareEnrollees with respite on the plan of careYour plan case manager
iBudget FloridaUnder 21 in the family homeYour Waiver Support Coordinator
Veteran programsEnrolled veteransA VA social worker
Private payAnyoneRequest a care call

How much respite is enough?

A regular weekly break usually does more than a rare long one, because it gives you something to count on. Book it before you need it.

Making the first visit work

Keep it short. Write down the routine. Meet the caregiver first. See how we do respite.

Not in Hillsborough? In Pinellas and Pasco, the Elder Helpline connects to the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas. In Pasco, County Senior Services is at 727-834-3340.

Questions families ask

Can respite happen overnight?

Ask us. It depends on staffing, and we would rather give you a real answer than a general promise.

Is there a limit on hours under Medicaid?

Hours depend on your plan of care. Ask your case manager what is authorized.