Respite Care

You Cannot Pour From an Empty Cup

Caring for a loved one at the end of life is one of the most profound acts of love a person can give. It is also one of the most exhausting.

If you have been the primary caregiver managing medications, coordinating visits, anticipating needs, staying alert through the night, you already know what it costs. Physically. Emotionally. And in the quiet moments when you realize how long it has been since you rested, ate a real meal, or had a single hour that was entirely your own.

Respite care exists for exactly this reason. It is not a luxury. It is a recognized, covered component of hospice care, because your wellbeing matters, and because a caregiver who is depleted cannot give their loved one the presence they deserve.

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In honor of Mrs. Welsch, the Welsch family, and all the patients and families, that allow us to share in their journey.

What Respite Care Is

Respite care is temporary relief for family caregivers – a planned period of time during which your loved one’s care is fully covered by the Golden Rule Hospice team, so that you can step away and rest without worry.

It is not a sign that you cannot handle caregiving. It is not an abandonment of your loved one. It is a deliberate, healthy act of sustaining the caregiving relationship – so that when you return, you are present, rested, and able to give the quality of attention your loved one deserves.

Learn more about the full range of family support we offer

Signs You May Need Respite Care

Many caregivers wait too long before asking for relief – often because they feel guilty stepping away, or because they have normalized a level of exhaustion that is not sustainable. Some signs that respite care may be needed:

You are sleeping poorly or not at all due to overnight caregiving demands.
You have neglected your own medical needs, appointments, or medications.
You feel persistent emotional numbness, irritability, or a sense of hopelessness.
You have no time for basic self-care – meals, rest, or time outside the home.
You are managing a personal health issue on top of caregiving responsibilities.
Family members have expressed concern about how you are coping.

If any of these apply, please speak with your social worker or registered nurse. They will help coordinate the right form of respite care for your family’s situation – without judgment and without delay.

Your Loved One Is in Good Hands

One of the most common concerns caregivers have about respite care is whether their loved one will receive the same level of attention and care in their absence. The answer is yes.

Whether a Golden Rule Hospice volunteer is present in the home or your loved one is receiving inpatient respite care at an approved facility, they are surrounded by trained, compassionate people whose entire focus is their comfort and wellbeing. Your care team remains informed throughout – and you remain reachable at any time.

Rest knowing they are cared for. That is the entire purpose of respite.

Learn more about what our volunteers provide

Respite Care Is a Covered Benefit

Inpatient respite care is covered under the Medicare Hospice Benefit for eligible beneficiaries – at no out-of-pocket cost beyond a small daily copayment for the inpatient stay, if applicable. Volunteer respite visits are included in hospice care at no additional cost.

Medicaid and most private insurance plans also include a respite care benefit as part of hospice coverage.

Learn more about who pays for hospice

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I request respite care?

Speak with your care coordinator, social worker, or registered nurse to request respite care. They will assess your needs, explain the available options, and coordinate the logistics so the process is as simple as possible for your family.

How far in advance do I need to request inpatient respite care?

We recommend requesting inpatient respite as early as possible to allow time for placement coordination. However, if the need is urgent, our team will work to arrange care as quickly as the situation requires.

Can I use inpatient respite care more than once?

Yes. The Medicare Hospice Benefit allows for inpatient respite care on an as-needed basis throughout the course of hospice – not just once. If your circumstances require periodic respite stays, that is an appropriate use of this benefit.

Will my loved one be returned home after inpatient respite care?

Yes. Inpatient respite care is temporary by design. Your loved one returns home after the respite period ends, and the regular care team resumes visits on the standard schedule.

Learn more about our levels of care

What if I feel guilty about taking time away from my loved one?

This is one of the most common feelings among family caregivers – and it is worth talking through with your social worker or chaplain. Taking care of yourself is not selfish. It is one of the most important things you can do for the person you are caring for.

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Is Hospice Right for Your Loved One?

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Golden Rule Hospice5.0

Based on 269 reviews

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Gwen M.

2 days ago

I am very pleased with all the interactions with Golden Rule. Vivian has been wonderful with mom she is a pleasure to chat with. Tyrell as well has been very attentive to mom's needs. We enjoy a few laughs with him. I enjoyed my Visit with Elizabeth & Reginia. We had a nice chat and I look forward to seeing them again. I appreciated Barbara's help as well when she filled in with Tyrell. I found everyone to be very caring.

Donald B.

4 days ago

I'm the full time caregiver for my wife's 92 year old uncle! I would say the staff as a whole have gone above and beyond. The only issue that was a struggle initially was his bed, and thanks for everything everyone did to resolve it, especially Barbara who stayed on the issue until it was resolved. Thanks to Regina who spoke with my uncle to offer spiritually comforting words of encouragement. Special thanks to Tyrell his nurse he's been very through with everything regarding my uncle's care. And a special thanks to Vivian his CNA who comes to care for bathing and helping him with any immediate concerns. She's very friendly, punctual and is very observant in tending to him. She also does a great job making sure my uncle has the necessasary supplies for his ADL's. You have a great team, in behalf of my family and myself, we thank you

Dr. Tami B.

2 weeks ago

Golden Rule Hospice was a blessing. In my mothers last weeks the nurse Tyrell was so attentive, followed my wishes I asked for her and treated my mother with compassionand upmost dignity, Vivian the nursing assistant was loving and attentive, my mother loved her, the Chaplin Regina is very spiritual and her prayers were uplifting in a sad time, and the Social Worker Elizabeth was very kind compassionate, and caring . The Clinical manager and admission team was also very helpful. I am very grateful for this hospice company, may God bless you Golden Rule Hospice!

Angela S.

2 weeks ago

Heather with Golden Rule hospice was increadibly helpful and compassionate. She went the extra mile to try and help us find what we needed in a nursing home.

Melanie J.

4 weeks ago

The care and support that the Golden Rule Hospice provided not only to my mother, but to our family as a whole, was so important and appreciated. I cannot say enough positive affirmations for Harley, Mallory, Stephanie, Heather and Brooke. They all made a difficult time so much easier. Thank all of you ♥️

Careeka P.

1 month ago

Trayanna has provided excellent care. She is attentive and also thoughtful. We appreciate it.

Yolanda Thomas N.

2 months ago

Vivian really take care of my father she is his CNA she makes sure Dad is well groomed and His Nurse Shamill his nurse is taking really good care of My dad and the Social worker Elizabeth is so kind and thoughtful when i ask questions and all of these ladies are top notch at they show us love and genuine concern not only to my father but to our family as well.They have really made this season in my father’s life as well as ours more tolerable and Golden Rule Hospice I am so thankful for everything you have done for our daddy you never missed a beat no matter how and when I called someone was always available so I am so appreciative that We choose Golden Rule as the Hospice for my father this company and very reliable and caring and so helpful ❤️

Bryan H.

2 months ago

Vivian R and Tyrell have been superstars in care giving for my dad. Very friendly and personable. Vivian remembered my mother by name even after we moved to a new facility. We appreciate the quality care!

Lisa S.

2 months ago

I cannot say enough wonderful things about our hospice team!!! (Vivian, CNA) Shamille, Tyrell, Liz, Alex and Diana! Caring for someone you love at the end of their life is incredibly difficult, emotional, and at times frightening, and having the right people beside you makes all the difference. From the beginning, our team has treated my mother with kindness, dignity, compassion, and respect. Just as importantly, they have listened to me as her caregiver. They listen to what I'm seeing, answer my questions, explain our options, and help me make decisions based on what will keep my mother peaceful and comfortable. There have been some very difficult days, particularly as her condition has changed, and I have never felt like we were simply another patient or another family on a list. Their compassion feels genuine. They understand that hospice isn't only about caring for the patient—it is also about supporting the family members who are trying to navigate something they have never had to navigate before. They have reassured me when I've questioned myself, respected the fact that I know my mother well, and helped me through situations that were overwhelming and scary. Having knowledgeable professionals who will listen, guide me, and calmly help me determine what she needs has given me tremendous peace of mind. God bless these wonderful people for making an incredibly difficult situation the best it can be. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart! I've made lifelong friends and I'm forever grateful for everything each one of you does!

Sara F.

2 months ago

Quy and Wanda were instrumental while getting my sister admitted to Hospice. They dealt personally with outside agencies to overcome roadblocks. I cannot thank them enough for their compassion.

Elaine B.

3 months ago

This is the 2nd time we have used Golden Rule! Both times we had wonderful care! Dawn & Stephanie took extra care of my mother-in-law for a little over two weeks!! The entire staff was amazing from the get go!! I would highly recommend them!

Alicia R.

4 months ago

Julie is the nicest, caring Cna they have she does really good with all her patients. I hope she gets a bonus or raise for how good she does. -Phoenix lake Lanier.

Barbara C.

4 months ago

My brother was a patient with Golden Rule. They were so kind, supportive, and made such a difficult and sad situation become a precious and loving experience. They were available whenever we needed them, and respectful of the time we needed to be alone with family.

Ivan B.

4 months ago

Taylor is a wonderful resource for families navigating the hospice journey. Her contagious smile, compassionate heart, and genuine knowledge of hospice care immediately put people at ease. She takes the time to educate, listen, and support families during some of life’s most challenging moments. It’s clear that she truly cares about the people she serves, and her dedication makes a meaningful difference in our community. I highly recommend reaching out to Taylor if you have questions about hospice care or need guidance for a loved one.

Terry G.

5 months ago

Our family has had a terrific experience with Golden Rule Hospice and our team of Miss Shamille, Miss Vivian and Miss Liz. They have been taking great care of our Mother and are all very friendly and cordial. I would definitely recommend Golden Rule Hospice to anyone who is in need of their services. Thank Y'all very much!

Evelyn W.

5 months ago

The service is very comfortable they make sure Your loved 🙏🏿ones are comfortable and have the supplies they need in such a difficult time🙌🏾 with words of encouragement I appreciate Mr.Alex praying for my son and his family 😇and the wonderful help from the nurses Ryan,❤️Jennette💕 ,Dee ❤️and Ms Kim💕 And Ms.Bobbie 💕,Quay thank you all for your time and caring for my son 🙌🏾🙏🏾💪🏾💯all the support we need God got This😇 in Jesus mighty name🙏🏿🙌🏾 thank y’all so much.💕

Mjumbe

5 months ago

Golden Rule Hospice has been a true blessing to me and my family. We especially appreciate the warmth and personal care given by our N.A.

Paul G.

6 months ago

Our family had an excellent experience with Golden Rule Hospice in providing end-of-life care for my stepmother. Everyone they sent to our house was caring and compassionate, and they provided my stepmom with great comfort during the last few weeks of her life. Highly recommended!

James A.

6 months ago

Opal and Vivian are so sweet to Mom. She says they take great care of her. Regina is the Chaplin and is such a great person. The folks at Golden Rule make regular contact with me to see how they can be of service.

Joan R.

6 months ago

It’s difficult to put into words what this hospice team has meant to our family during one of the hardest times of our lives. From the very beginning, they treated my mother-in-law with such dignity, compassion, and genuine kindness. We are especially grateful to Heather, the social worker, and Harlee, her nurse, whose care and presence went above and beyond. Heather, your compassion, steady support, prayers, and guidance helped us navigate moments that felt overwhelming. You brought a sense of calm and understanding that made such a difference for our entire family. Harlee, your attentiveness, gentle care, and reassurance brought so much comfort—not only to her, but to all of us. Your kindness will not be forgotten. Every member of the team showed not only professionalism, but a level of warmth and humanity that made an incredible difference. Heather anticipated needs we didn’t even know to ask for and she was always patient in answering questions, no matter how many. While we are deeply saddened to be transitioning her care due to location, we are incredibly grateful for the support and compassion they have given us. They ensured she was comfortable and treated with dignity in her final days—something our family will never forget. With deepest gratitude, we wholeheartedly recommend Golden Rule Hospice to any family seeking compassionate, dignified end-of-life care. Their impact on our family and the diligent work especially from Heather as we had to make a quick change in care will never be forgotten. Even with us leaving this hospice, Heather continued to exemplify a true servant’s heart and advocated for us to get the best care for my husband’s mother.

Dianna Du P.

6 months ago

Trayonna Latin is a wonderful nurse who provides in home care for my mother. She is consistently kind, patient and attentive and treats my mother with respect and compassion, even on days when my mother is having a bad day.

stormi P.

6 months ago

The staff at Golden Rule Hospice are so kind and caring. My mother has been in their care for over a year which I know is specifically due to the holistic focus on her needs. Julia her nurse is so thoughtful, patient, with a great sense of humor! She is very responsive to outreaches and questions. Dionne her social worker has been so helpful with so many aspects of care and planning. My mother and her reminisce about being from NY and NJ often. She also has a wonderful sense of humor!! We could not have picked a better organization!

Priscilla Z.

6 months ago

Sierra H.

7 months ago

Julia comes to our facility at Dunwoody Place she is a wonderful soul, she takes pride in everything she does when it comes to our residents and it means a lot to us

Kevin G.

7 months ago

Best hospice ever.Best nurse ever. Shamille is great. Highly recommend Shamille. Kevin

You Don’t Have to Wait Until You Are Completely Depleted

The best time to use respite care is before you hit a wall – not after. Reach out to your care team now, and let us help you build regular relief into your caregiving routine before exhaustion takes over.

Call us anytime at (470) 395-6567 or reach us online. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Serving families across Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Dawson, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Lumpkin, Newton, Paulding, Pickens, Rockdale, and Walton counties.

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Carla R.

Golden Rule had proven to be the top tier , when it come to care and resources, Minnie Baker, Shamille, and Liz have always been there for my client. Doesn't matter the need they are always a phone call away to assist in directing the care and resources needed. I'm so thankful we chose them. My client absolutely loves Ms Minnie, and Shamille. Thanks for all you do, your the best.

Heaven H.

We are very grateful to have found golden rule hospice. We have been working with Vivian who treats my Dad with dignity and respect, and it gives our family so much peace knowing he is in such capable and caring hands. Her work ethic is exceptional, and the level of dedication she shows is something we deeply appreciate. She goes above and beyond, and we are truly blessed to have her. His Nurse Muriel is also wonderful, and does a great job helping our family understand my dad’s needs and care plan. We truly appreciate how clearly she explains his needs and keeps us informed.

Mary

Thank you Golden Rule for being an outstanding hospice care service! When my hubby was diagnosed with a debilitating terminal illness, we secured the name of the hospice care (Golden Rule) that my friend used for her mother. She was very pleased with them, as are we. Our GR hospice team consists of Nurse Cheryl, CNA Andre, Chaplain Stanley, and Social Worker Heather. Nurse Cheryl does a thorough weekly assessment of hubby's condition, orders equipment and prescriptions and always follows up to be sure they have been delivered. She returns our calls promptly. Above all, she is very loving and caring. My husband calls Andre the gentle giant! Andre helps with shower care and my husband is very comfortable with him. Andre works closely with Cheryl and is extremely knowledgeable. We are so thankful this amazing man is on our team. Chaplain Stanley's soft demeanor and interesting stories puts my husband at ease and puts a smile on his face. We both enjoy when he brings his guitar and sings for us. SW Heather continues to be a great wealth of information for us and just a phone call away. We are very thankful for Golden Rule Hospice care during this difficult time in our lives.

kristen L.

Kathy Hazellief is truly wonderful with our hospice residents at Dahlonega Assisted Living and Memory Care. Every time she comes in you can see how much she genuinely cares — she takes her time, speaks gently, and makes sure our residents feel comfortable, calm, and respected. She’s also very supportive to families and staff, explaining things in a way everyone understands and never making anyone feel rushed. Honestly she’s our favorite and does the best by far. We are so thankful for the compassion and kindness she shows because she really makes a hard time a little easier for our residents, their families, and our team.

Alisa S.

Golden rule has provided exceptional care for my mom who is under their care. The nurse, Chris, has been exceptional. The CNA, Kathy, has been exceptional as well. We are extremely happy with their services and would highly recommend them to anyone.

Carla R.

I absolutely love the services that are provided ( Nurse ) Shamille, (CNA) Minnie B. are an awesome team providing care for my client that is 98 yrs. young like a family member. E all look forward to their visits wkly . If I could award this star team personally I would, for such excellent work jobs well done. Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do ❣️❣️❣️ it definitely takes a village and special angels to do what is needed to keep clients comfortable and happy . Carla Rogers

Trish T.

Shamille and Vivian have been so wonderful to my dad Robert Butler. They are kind, caring and respectful of my dad. They have also been very kind to me and my sisters as we go thru this end of life journey for my dad Obviously Golden Rule Hospice is an excellent hospice based on these two women.

Stefanie B.

My father was taken care of 3 years ago by Golden Rule and he changed his mind and "graduated". He just turned 97 and after celebrating, he declined rapidly. Fortunately, I knew who to call. Golden Rule was fabulous then and fabulous now. I requested the same nurse, Shamille, and she is as loving and attentive as she was previously. I thoroughly trust her and she always responds to my calls and questions. By the time hospice came on the scene my father was bedridden. The CNA, Vivian, came to bathe him and watching her with him made me cry. She knew exactly how to maneuver him and she made sure his bedding was clean as well. She shaved him and brushed his teeth. He was so happy and said "I feel so good now." She is exquisite in her care. He is in his very last days and she came by just to make sure he was ok and that I was ok. Everyone there I have interacted with (both times) is caring, professional and bring light into what could be a dark time. Elizabeth, the social worker, checks on us regularly and makes sure all the paperwork is in order. Thank you Golden Rule.

Helen H.

Vivian (our CNA) has been very amazing! She takes good care of my dad & helps us any way she can making it easier on my family. We’re so grateful for her as a family. Dianna (our weekend RN) has been very wonderful and very helpful too, helps us any way she can and answers all questions. Thank you golden rule hospice!

Brando

Vivian our CNA is the best! She always brings supplies and a smile and a sweet caring funny spirit! She always makes sure my nana has what she needs. She is very reliable and knows how to build positive relationships with families. She makes sure nana is cared for. She cleans nana and makes her bed. nana always feels comfortable with her.

Connie F.

My experience with Golden Rule has been outstanding. Every staff member has been professional, knowledgeable, friendly and a joy to work with. The one I value the most is Vivian the CNA. My husband and I love her like family. She takes such good care of him and he always express how much better he feels when she leaves. Take God for her. Also I would like to mention Tyrell the nurse and Elizabeth the social worker. Their work is excellent and very commendable.Your company is one of the best health care companies I have had the pleasure of working with. Thank you so much and may Od Bless you all. Constance Rodgers Faison MSN Nursing Professor

Linda I.

My mom has been under the care of Golden Rule for a year, and she has just thrived! She was somewhat depressed when we first started, but now is really enjoying life again.. my mom will be 100 years old in December. Chris Hill is an outstanding nurse with Golden Rule, I attribute mom’s well being mostly to him. He is genuinely kind and caring! Kathy also does a great job with mom, she won’t let anyone else give her showers .Stanley does an excellent job of spiritual support. Thank you Golfen Rule!

T S.

Golden Rule Hospice has provided excellent care for my loved one for about a month now. We have been assigned a lovely Nurse named Opal who has been so sweet, loving, and attentive. We've also had a few visits from the nurse's lovely aide, Edna for showers for my LO. She has also been so wonderful, loving, and kind. They both really know what they are doing and we appreciate them so much. We briefly met the hospice social worker, Elizabeth, and she seems great too.

Bobbie B.

★★★★★ Exceptional Care and Compassion Golden Rule Hospice provided outstanding care for my Grandmother. The entire team was compassionate, professional, and always available to offer support. I want to give special recognition to Care givers,Reggie, Vivian, and Shamiel—their kindness, dedication, and expertise made a difficult time much easier for our family. They went above and beyond to ensure comfort and dignity, and we are truly grateful for their care. I highly recommend Golden Rule Hospice to anyone in need of quality, compassionate hospice services.