More than 5 million Americans are living with dementia; 540,000 of them—more than 10 percent of the national total—live in Florida. Yet when you’re caring for someone with dementia, it’s easy to feel alone. Florida’s senior population is booming, thanks to year-round outdoor activities, a thriving economy, and a favorable tax climate. As a result, the state has acted quickly to respond to the needs of people living with dementia. These resources can help you support your loved one, preserve your own mental health, and seek the help your family needs.
Education and Resource Guides
A little knowledge can empower you to make better decisions, help you plan for the future, and encourage open dialogue with your loved one. Here are some excellent resources:
- Elder Update is Florida’s guide to a wide variety of elder care and senior living topics. Available online, the Florida Department of Elder Affairs publishes the newsletter on a bimonthly basis.
- The Consumer Resource Guide offers a comprehensive overview of state-sponsored senior services, as well as details on how to access additional assistance if you need it.
- The Florida Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative Education Manual paints a hopeful portrait of life with dementia, offering actionable tips and clear information about what to expect.
- Florida’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers are local hubs of information, including on assistance applying for Medicare, access to senior living resources, and information about senior-friendly programs. The Elder Helpline can answer a wide range of questions about elder care, and direct you to the right resources for your needs. The Florida Seniors Guide offers links to numerous helpful resources, as well as information about rights and resources for seniors.
Legal and Financial Help
Aging presents a wide range of financial and legal challenges. The right advice from a lawyer or other professional can help you better navigate these new challenges. Check out these options:
- View the Older Floridians Handbook for advice on many common legal concerns.
- Check out the Older Floridians Legal Assistance Programs for low-cost or free legal advice.
- Visit Florida SHINE for free help navigating your healthcare system and accessing affordable health insurance.
- Visit the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys if you need to find a Florida attorney who specializes in elder law issues.
Activities and Support
Providing quality care to a person with dementia extends well beyond tending to their basic needs. Caregivers may feel exhausted and burned out. The following resources can help:
- Join one of the Florida chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association for support from people who know the challenges of caregiving.
- Contact Florida’s Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative which offers training, support, and other resources for dementia caregivers.
Seniors with dementia need activities and socialization to remain psychologically healthy. Florida’s senior centers connect your loved one to friendship, classes, and lots of activities.
Senior Care and Living
Finding the right dementia care is one of the best things you can do to improve quality of life for your loved one and your family. These resources can help:
- Eldercare Locator is a government-sponsored search tool for finding a wide range of senior care and living options.
- Respite for Elderly Living in Everyday Families (RELIEF) offers respite care for seniors who receive care from a family caregiver.
- The Senior Companion Program provides in-home companions for seniors who want to avoid transitioning to senior living.
The Arbor Company has served Florida seniors and their families for three decades. Our compassionate and supportive memory care programs offer safety and daily care alongside meaningful activities, a welcoming community, and plenty of opportunities for exercise. Find a senior living community near you. To learn more about the Arbor difference, give us a call or stop by one of our community events!
