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ALZHEIMER’S AND BRAIN AWARENESS MONTH

Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

Welcome to June. June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. The “E” in my H.O.P.E. acronym stands for Education. Caregivers need to stay abreast of information that can help their loved one living with Alzheimer’s and effectively manage their caregiver role. As a caregiver, I began attending Alzheimer’s Association events and I have always found their educational programs beneficial. Last month I attended a symposium where they shared emerging Alzheimer’s research, introduced the new CMS GUIDE program (see below), discussed caregiver self-care, and concluded with a panel discussion by caregivers. These formal presentations are always informative but an added benefit of speaking with and sharing tips,  information, and encouragement with other caregivers present.

In honor of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, please visit Alz.org and register for a free educational program near you or online. The website also includes useful articles and information including the 24/7 helpline on 1-800-272-3900.

Photo: Pat Risher, Panel Facilitator

CMS Guide Program

In July 2024, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) launched the GUIDE model. GUIDE is an acronym for Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience. The goal of the program is to:

• Provide coordinated care (dementia and other chronic conditions) to improve quality of care for those living with dementia,
• Reduce the mental and physical stress of their caregivers,
• Improve quality of life of the person living with dementia and their caregiver, and
• Reduce the financial burden of dementia care by:

- Helping the person living with dementia have less emergency room visits, less hospitalizations and allowing            them to remain in their home and community (familiar places) as long as possible.

- Providing support for the caregiver thereby reducing the medical mental health impact that so many dementia          caregivers experience from the high demand and stress of caregiving.

The major components of the program include: 

• Development of a comprehensive assessment and coordinated care plan for the person living with dementia
• Caregiver training, education, and support services
• Respite services allowing caregivers to take a temporary break from their caregiving responsibilities
• Coordination of community-based services such as meals and transportation
• 24/7 access to care navigators for questions and support

New GUIDE programs will begin providing services on July 1, 2025. To find a participating dementia care program in your area, visit. 

Photos: Kathy Cluff, Senior Social Worker and Adrienne Holloway, Program Manager, Swank Center for Memory Care

Happy Anniversary AlzAuthors!

Happy Anniversary AlzAuthors. AlzAuthors was created by 3 visionary Alzheimer’s Authors 10 years ago. It allows, authors like myself, to educate and encourage other caregivers. Visit the website on AlzAuthors.com to peruse the vast collection of books. They also host a monthly podcast and have a blog featuring real-life experiences. You can also sign up for their 10th anniversary book giveaway. AlzAuthors is an A1 Educational resource.

H.O.P.E. for the Alzheimer’s Journey

In honor of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness month please purchase a copy of my book to increase your awareness or to help a friend or family member.  H.O.P.E. for the Alzheimer’s Journey: Help, Organization, Preparation, and Education for the Road Ahead has helped hundreds of caregivers have a less stressful, more rewarding journey. This award-winning caregiver guide has been reduced to $10 in honor of Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month on CarolBAmos.com.  

Take Care of Yourself