Caregivers are a vital in keeping individuals with dementia in their community for as long as possible, the Greater Nashville Regional Council offers support to help caregivers in their efforts.
A dementia diagnosis can often be life altering, not only for the individual, but for their loved ones as well. Caregivers are vital to keeping an individual with dementia in their community for as long as possible. This article is a starting point for those looking to learn more about the assistance that is available to caregivers through the Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) and other organizations.
What programs does GNRC offer to caregivers of someone with dementia?
As the Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities (AAAD), GNRC’s helpline is staffed by trained professionals and social workers that can help connect you to the services you need as a caregiver.
The Family Caregiver Support Program through the GNRC, provides respite services for adults caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease or any related dementia. Services include:
- Connection to support groups and counseling services.
- Education for those caring for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia, or a related neurological condition.
- Respite care to temporarily relieve caregivers from their responsibilities.
- Supplemental in-home services to complement a caregiver’s efforts.
- Adult Day Care services
These services can be of little or no cost to the individual, depending on what programs they qualify for and their financial resources. Call the GNRC Information and Assistance Helpline at 615-255-1010 or 866-836-6678 to see if you or your loved one qualifies for the financial assistance offered by GNRC.
What help and resources are there for me as someone caring for someone with dementia beyond GNRC?
- The Tennessee Respite Coalition (TRC) works with in-home caregivers to select services, facilities, programs and self-care plans that best fit their needs. Beyond offering information on resources, TRC offers a Family Directed Respite Voucher Program to help off-set the costs of in-home respite. Additionally, TRC facilitates the Senior Volunteer Companion program, providing a safe environment for frail and vulnerable individuals who rely on a full-time caregiver. Call the TRC helpline for more information about their available services at (615)269-8687.
- Adult Day Care services are designed for those who should not be left alone and need assistance in managing their day-to-day care, but do not require nursing home care. AgeWell of Middle Tennessee offers a comprehensive Directory of Services, including locations of Adult Day Care centers, the counties served, contact information and hours of operation.
- The Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD) offers a wide variety of resources about dementia and Alzheimer’s, including a selection of online resources, their series of cognitive games called CleverMind and Caregiver Tip Sheets.
Have more questions? Call Our Helpline
Call our Information and Assistance Hotline to learn more about any of GNRC's programs and services. 615-255-1010 or 866-836-6678