AUSTIN – Caring for a loved one is rewarding, but it can also be stressful – mentally, physically, emotionally and financially. To address these concerns, the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) has launched a website – www.taketimetexas.org – that provides the resources caregivers need to take an occasional break from their day-to-day responsibilities.

TakeTimeTexas.org is the first statewide clearinghouse of information for both caregivers and providers of “respite” services – those services that allow caregivers to take a temporary break in order to restore or strengthen their ability to continue providing care for a child or adult with functional needs.

“Having cared for my mother during her eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease, I understand the overwhelming challenges that caregivers face every day,” said state Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound and chair of the Joint Select Committee on Alzheimer’s Disease and of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. “This new resource represents our commitment to the millions of Texans impacted by family illness.”

Caregivers can search for providers in their area by name, county served, type of respite provided, age group served or the type of provider.