Supports for Dementia Caregivers and Family
You’re not alone as a dementia caregiver. Whether you’re facing a new diagnosis or working through advanced stages, there are resources available throughout the Commonwealth to help you and your loved one age in place.
1. Caregiver Solutions
You might already be familiar with Boston Senior Home Care’s Caregiver Solutions program, and the kindness and resourcefulness of our caregiver advisors. If you’re not sure where to start looking for support and services for a loved one with dementia, we’re here to listen to your worries and point you in the right direction. We also accept referrals on behalf of another person.
Contact your caregiver advisor to learn more, or submit a referral online.
2. Alzheimer’s Association
As one of America’s largest nonprofits for Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias, and memory care, the Alzheimer’s Association is there to help you. They offer confidential support, crisis assistance, local resources, and information in over 200 languages. Through their 24/7 helpline, they can answer any question you have.
Some resources they offer include:
- Webinars and research
- Planning toolkits
- Awareness and fundraising events
- Connections to the local dementia care community
- A 24/7 helpline, at 800-272-3900
To learn more and connect, visit the Alzheimer’s Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter.
3. Boston ElderINFO
Our information and referral service, Boston ElderINFO, offers access to many services to help people living with dementia and their families. We can connect you to:
- Home care services to help with chores, homemaking, and personal care
- Personal care attendant services
- Home delivered meals
- Health insurance counseling
- Adult day health facilities
- Community resources
If you’re unsure about what supports are available for dementia caregivers and their loved ones, our options counselors can guide you through the long-term services available to you, regardless of disability or income. We work with you, your family members, and care team to find solutions that fit your current situation and preferences.
Connect with a skilled specialist today by calling 617-262-6211 or clicking the button below.
4. GUIDE Program
The GUIDE Program, short for Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience, is a federally-funded program to improve the lives of people living with dementia living at home and reduce strain on their caregivers.
The great thing is that GUIDE is provided at no additional cost through Medicare. GUIDE can help by providing:
- Tailored support from a dedicated dementia care navigator
- Annual respite care stipend benefits paid by Medicare
- Caregiver education and support
- Care coordination with your current doctor
- Case management
In Massachusetts, the GUIDE program is provided through Care Dimensions. To learn more, call 888-283-1722 or apply through Care Dimensions’ online referral form.
5. AARP Resource Library
As one of the largest aging advocacy nonprofit organizations, AARP has built an extensive library of resources for its millions of readers who are aging with dementia. These cover a wide range of topics including:
- Guides on types of dementias
- Warning signs and diagnosis
- Care and treatment
- Reducing risk
- Living with dementia
- Dementia research
Learn more about dementia and living well with dementia by visiting the AARP Brain Health Resource Center. Most AARP resources are free, though there are some exclusive courses and workshops that are only available to members.