Riverside Health is one of two organizations in Virginia to launch the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) model program. The GUIDE program was designed by The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide a cohesive community-based program designed for those who care for a loved one with dementia. As nearly 6.5 million Americans live with dementia or another form of cognitive decline, this program will connect caregivers with essential resources, support and education within their community and partner with them throughout their journey as a caregiver.
“Caring for a loved one with dementia can feel overwhelming but know you are not alone on this journey. The GUIDE program at The Martha W. Goodson Center is designed to help build a community of support to help balance the medical and personal needs of the patient and the caregiver.,” says Tina Thomas, Executive Director of The Martha W. Goodson Center. “Our goal is to provide comprehensive resources, compassionate care and a network of professionals and peers who understand the unique challenges caregivers face.”
The GUIDE program participants are assigned a dedicated Community Health Care Navigator to assist them on their caregiver journey by connecting them with community-based resources. The navigator will help personalize care plans, provide medication management and coordinate care for the patient as well as providing regular check-ins and 24/7 support for the caregiver’s urgent concerns.
“We understand that caring for a loved one with dementia or cognitive decline is a journey that requires patience, compassion and resilience. Patients living with these conditions may also need a unique approach to care that holistically addresses their physical, emotional and social needs,” says Frankye Myers, Chief Nursing Executive at Riverside Health. “The GUIDE program is designed to support caregivers by providing educational resources, assistance and 24/7 support to help navigate this journey.”
Patients must meet a set of eligibility criteria as set forth by CMS to qualify for the GUIDE program. If patients qualify for the program, their medical provider will have additional details on enrollment details. This program has launched the first phase of enrollment and is accepting patients in Williamsburg, Gloucester, Smithfield and on the Peninsula with plans to expand over time to offer these services in additional areas.
To learn more about the GUIDE program at Riverside, please talk to your primary care provider or call the Martha W. Goodson Center at 757-220-4751.