KEEPING UP WITH THE GUIDE MODEL
Since November 2024, we have been hard at work facilitating the GUIDE model within our client base and are now actively receiving CMS vouchers for the program with more being approved every week. With the GUIDE model, Care Advantage clients may be eligible for 80 hours annually of free in-home care support services after evaluation. Keep reading to learn about the GUIDE model, who it impacts, and what our clients and clinicians have to say about it.
The ‘Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience’ (GUIDE) Model is a pioneering program announced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) designed to support caregivers and their loved ones navigating the dementia care journey. By offering free supplementary in-home care, the GUIDE Program’s respite voucher model offers in-home support tailored to ensuring comfort, safety, and dignity to our clients and offering peace of mind and rest to their caregivers.
WHAT PATIENTS NEED TO KNOW:
At Care Advantage Inc, we know that caring for a loved one with dementia is both rewarding and demanding. We are excited to be able to offer the GUIDE respite program which allows us to continue to provide compassionate care that supports your individual needs.
The GUIDE Respite voucher offers 80 hours of respite care, specifically designed to support caregivers of individuals with dementia or dementia-like symptoms. Your hours can be used in flexible 4-hour increments, allowing you to take a break, recharge your batteries, and return with renewed energy while knowing we are providing tailored care for your loved ones.
Respite care is important because it allows you to take time to care for yourself. Studies show that taking regular breaks improves caregiver well-being, reduces the risk of burnout, and allows you to continue providing the loving care your family member deserves, in the place they are most comfortable..
Make sure to use your hours. Don’t save them for a rainy day! Preventative respite care decreases the risk of emergencies, slows cognitive decline, and reduces hospitalizations. Discuss your needs with your nurse and we can help you get your hours scheduled.
WHAT PEOPLE HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE GUIDE MODEL:
“I think the GUIDE program is great because it connects experienced caregivers with some of our most at-risk clients and gives their families the confidence they need to take respite for themselves.
I had a husband-and-wife couple that both got approved. When I told the daughter she was excited and couldn’t believe that both of her parents were approved, meaning she could step away knowing both of them would be cared for.”
-Casey, RN in Fredericksburg
“It’s a great resource to those in need of a great amount of assistance due to cognitive decline. It provides much-needed reprieve in a time that families struggle to find it. With our nurses’ help and the GUIDE program’s help we can keep these clients home longer where clients are happier!”
-Micki, RN in South Boston
GUIDE works with preferred partners like Care Advantage to personalize care plans and provide additional support for our clients. A team of caregivers can provide the patient with support to ensure that they receive the care that’s right for them. While the client’s family receives resources and information to help them support their loved ones, caregivers are supported by temporary relief care to keep them at their very best when they’re working.
WHAT THE GUIDE MODEL CAN DO FOR YOU
- Personalized care plans: Each patient receives a customized care plan based on their health needs, stage of dementia or cognitive impairment, personal preferences, and family/caregiver input. Care plans are regularly reviewed and updated as their cognitive and physical condition changes.
- Peace of mind: Time for caregivers to step away and recharge their batteries, all while knowing that their loved ones are in capable hands. Taking time for yourself is essential for your own well-being. It reduces burnout and allows you to continue providing the loving care that your loved one deserves.
- Enhanced care coordination: Seamless collaboration between healthcare providers to deliver exceptional care with the aim of reducing hospitalization rates and emergency department visits. This approach can delay or prevent unnecessary care transitions, keeping our clients at home and in their communities where they are most at ease.
- Empowerment through education: GUIDE offers educational materials and workshops for families about dementia care, helping them understand disease progression and how to best support their loved ones.
- Comprehensive support: The program offers assistance with adapting a client’s living environment for a dementia-friendly home, reducing confusion and accidents. Creating and training staff on emergency protocols specific to dementia care, including wander prevention plans, medical emergencies and managing behavioral crises.
- Advance care planning: GUIDE helps document patient wishes for future care, ensuring their values and preferences are respected.
- Respite for caregivers: Temporary relief is offered to caregivers, allowing them to rest and recharge, improving their ability to provide quality care.
Thank you for trusting us to be part of your caregiving journey. We are thrilled to welcome GUIDE as the latest in our efforts to make your in-home care as easy and supportive as possible. Please reach out with any questions—we’re here to help.
