By Lisa Tyler, Communications Director
Senior Resources recently partnered with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for a new program to support people with dementia and their unpaid caregivers. The GUIDE Model (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) aims to enhance the quality of life for people with dementia and lessen the strain on their caregivers.
Dementia takes a toll on the people with the disease, but also on their loved ones and caregivers, in ways that almost no other disease does. Millions of Americans live with dementia and that number is projected to more than double to nearly 14 million by 2060.
The GUIDE Model goals include to:
Improve quality of life for people living with dementia by addressing their behavioral health and functional needs, coordinating their care for dementia and co-occurring conditions, and improving transitions between community, hospital, and post-acute settings.
Reduce burden and strain on unpaid caregivers of people living with dementia by providing caregiver skills training, referrals to community-based social services and sup-ports, 24/7access to a support line, and respite services.
Prevent or delay long-term nursing home care for as long as appropriate by supporting caregivers and enabling people living with dementia to remain safely in their homes for as long as possible.
Structured support and services include:
Access up to $2,500 in respite care services each year
Dementia Management training for caregivers
Support groups and counseling for caregivers and patients
To qualify, patients must: Have a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease; live at home or in the community; and be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. They cannot be enrolled in Medicare Advantage, including Special Needs Plans and PACE.
It’s important to note that insurance plan benefits will not change. Participants can still visit any doctor, healthcare professional, or hospital at any time.
How Does the GUIDE Model Program Work?
STEP 1 – Contact our Care Navigator via phone or email to check eligibility and enroll participants in the program.
STEP 2 – A Care Navigator will coordinate a personalized care plan with patients and caregivers.
STEP 3 – Caregivers receive training on managing dementia care and are offered access to respite services, support groups, and more.
STEP 4 – Our Care Navigator will regularly check in to monitor progress and make adjustments to the care plan.
And… It’s covered by Medicare Part B!
Speak to a Care Navigator Today: Call: 231-737-4041 and choose option 1 or email PCAH@seniorresourceswmi.org.