(A) As used in this section:

(1) "Respite care" means short-term, temporary care or supervision provided to a person who has dementia in the absence of the person who normally provides that care or supervision.

(2) "Dementia" includes Alzheimer's disease or other dementia.

(B) Through the internet web site maintained by the department of aging, the director of aging shall disseminate dementia training materials for licensed physicians, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, administrators of health care programs, social workers, and other health care and social service personnel who participate or assist in the care or treatment of persons who have dementia. The training materials disseminated through the web site may be developed by the director or obtained from other sources.

(C) To the extent funds are available, the director shall administer respite care programs and other supportive services for persons who have dementia and their families or care givers. Respite care programs shall be approved by the director and shall be provided for the following purposes:

(1) Giving persons who normally provide care or supervision for a person who has dementia relief from the stresses and responsibilities that result from providing such care;

(2) Preventing or reducing inappropriate institutional care and enabling persons who have dementia to remain at home as long as possible.

(D) The director may provide services under this section to persons with dementia and their families regardless of the age of the persons with dementia.

(E) The director may adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code governing respite care programs and other supportive services, the distribution of funds, and the purpose for which funds may be utilized under this section.

Amended by 133rd General Assembly File No. TBD, HB 166, §101.01, eff. 10/17/2019.

Amended by 129th General AssemblyFile No.39, SB 171, §1, eff. 6/30/2011.

Effective Date: 07-01-1993; 2007 HB119 09-29-2007