news release

VNA of the Treasure Coast is proud to be an approved provider for the GUIDE (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) Model, a Medicare program designed to support individuals with a suspected or confirmed dementia diagnosis and the family members who care for them.

More than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for someone living with dementia, often taking on the responsibility of managing appointments, coordinating care, assisting with daily activities, and providing emotional support. While rewarding, caregiving can also be challenging, leaving many families in need of additional guidance, resources, and support.

Launched by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the GUIDE Model helps improve the quality of life for individuals living with dementia while supporting the caregivers who play such an important role in their care. Through personalized care coordination, caregiver education, and Medicare-covered respite services, the program helps families navigate the dementia journey while allowing individuals to remain safely and comfortably at home for as long as possible.

“At VNA of the Treasure Coast, we recognize that family caregivers are the backbone of care for so many older adults living with dementia. The GUIDE Program provides caregivers with the education, support, resources, and respite they need to navigate this journey with greater confidence and less stress. By empowering caregivers, we’re not only improving their quality of life, but also helping individuals with dementia remain safely and independently in their homes for as long as possible. We are proud to bring this innovative program to our community and continue our mission of providing compassionate, person-centered care that supports the entire family,” said Carmen Luca, Director of Private Care at VNA of the Treasure Coast.

Through the GUIDE Program, eligible participants receive support from a dedicated Dementia Care Navigator who serves as a trusted point of contact for individuals and families. The Dementia Care Navigator helps coordinate care and connects families with valuable community resources, including transportation services, meal programs, safety initiatives, and other local support services.

The program also provides caregiver education and support to help families better understand dementia, manage stress, improve safety, and feel more confident in their caregiving role. Participants may also qualify for up to $2,500 per year in Medicare-covered in-home respite care, allowing caregivers to take a temporary break while their loved one continues receiving quality care at home.

Families interested in learning more about the GUIDE Program or determining eligibility are encouraged to contact VNA of the Treasure Coast at 772-567-5551.

About the VNA

The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of the Treasure Coast is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and provides home healthcare services, including Medicare-reimbursed and private-duty nursing; home health aides; physical, speech, and occupational therapy and in-home companions throughout Indian River County. The agency is also the only licensed hospice provider in Indian River County, offering end-of-life care in patients’ homes, local hospitals, assisted living facilities, and the VNA Hospice House. The VNA also provides low-cost medical care aboard the VNA Mobile Health Clinic at convenient locations throughout Indian River County and no-cost blood pressure and blood sugar screenings. To learn more about the VNA, please visit www.vnatc.com.