CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A new Medicare initiative is now providing fully covered caregiving support for individuals living with dementia, including right here in Chattanooga through Right at Home.
Medicare has officially launched a groundbreaking support system called the GUIDE Program, short for Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience.
It’s designed to support both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers by offering critical, hands-on resources.
The program includes up to 80 hours of respite care, 24/7 virtual nursing support, and personalized care plans tailored to each family’s unique needs.
Participants will also have access to dementia care navigators, trained professionals who can help coordinate services and provide ongoing guidance throughout the progression of the disease.
The goal is to reduce the emotional, logistical, and financial stress that often comes with caregiving, particularly for families navigating dementia without formal support systems.
“The Center for Medicare is really focused on trying to help those patients directly—really reimbursing for direct, hands-on care for those clients and giving families a break. That’s what we’re excited about,” said Ryan Naegele, Owner of Right at Home Chattanooga.
The GUIDE Program is available to individuals with Medicare who have been diagnosed with dementia, and participation does not require placement in a facility.
It’s part of a larger national shift toward home- and community-based care.
If you or a loved one is living with dementia and has Medicare coverage, you may be eligible for these free services.
To learn more and see if you qualify, click here.
