Pittsburgh Dementia caregivers have new options for support

Two new programs provide support to individuals living with dementia and their caregivers: The Jewish Association on Aging’s Adult Day and a federal model called GUIDE

Shannon PerrinePITTSBURGH —

Pittsburghers living with a loved one with a memory disorder have new tools to help navigate a challenging chapter of life.

A federal program called the GUIDE Model, Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience, was developed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

It is designed to support Medicare beneficiaries living with dementia and their unpaid caregivers.

The Jewish Association on Aging invited Pittsburgh’s Action News Four to visit the Anathan Club Day Center.

JAA staff offer new technology and new approaches for members and their caregivers. The program costs $90 a day. Some caregivers say it is less expensive than a permanent placement.

JAA also offers residential memory care when the time is right for day center members to transition. They offer some scholarship opportunities.

“I think it’s slow moving over time. But I think we’re making progress and that’s always good. But it’s a very, in terms of dementia, it’s a very difficult disease to get at because it’s not just one thing. It’s many different mechanisms going on that we need to address. So it’s going to take time. But I think we’re making steps in the right direction,” AHN neurologist Dr. Barbara McManus said.

McManus is with Allegheny Health Network’s Neuroscience Institute.

Here’s a deeper look at what the GUIDE program offers:

  • Care navigation. You get a dedicated staffer to coordinate medical appointments, manage symptoms, and connect you to resources.
  • 24-7 access. Round-the-clock telephone support for urgent questions and crises.
  • Caregiver support and training: Formal education, support groups, and skills training to reduce burnout.
  • Respite care: Financial coverage for temporary relief care. This comes with limits.
  • Social needs screening: Someone will assess housing, food, and transportation needs to link you with community organizations.

Not everyone qualifies for GUIDE. Here are the details:

  • You must have traditional Medicare Parts A and B, with Medicare as the primary payer.
  • Those enrolled in Medicare Advantage, PACE, or a Special Needs Plan are not eligible.
  • Diagnosis: You must have a confirmed diagnosis of dementia from a participating GUIDE clinician.
  • You must live in a private home, apartment, or qualifying residential care community or assisted living.
  • Residents in long-term nursing homes are not eligible for GUIDE.
  • If you’re using the Medicare hospice benefit, you are also not eligible.