Dementia remains America’s most feared diagnosis, beating out cancer, heart disease, or any other disease. One study found that 62 percent of people think that their life would be over were they to be diagnosed with dementia. Dementia can change things, but the changes are slow and unpredictable. Many people with dementia remain healthy and active for years, even continuing to live independently. Others find ways to adapt to changing abilities, bringing new purpose to life. Broward County offers a robust range of dementia care resources for every stage of this complex and unpredictable diagnosis.
Area Agency on Aging
The Broward County Area Agency on Aging is a one-stop shop for dementia resources. Learn about aging. Get connected with local advocates, or even volunteer with seniors. Some features to explore include:
- The Home Assistance program, which funds minor repairs so that seniors can stay at home
- Broward’s senior centers, which offer a range of options, including activities and field trips, adult day care, and special centers designed for the unique needs of seniors living with dementia
- The Caregiver Support program, through which caregivers can talk to other caregivers and get access to legal resources that can help you support your loved one
- The Respite Care program, which offers family caregivers a break.
- The Memory Disorder Clinic can provide quality, comprehensive, evidence-based dementia care and a correct diagnosis, which are key to thriving with dementia
Broward County’s Area Agency on Aging is the area’s most comprehensive local resource. It’s a great place to visit in person if you’re not sure where to begin or uncertain which services you might be eligible for. The agency can also connect you to private resources, recommend senior living communities, and offer feedback on which resources other seniors with dementia have found most helpful.
Broward County Elderly Services
The Elderly Services Division of Broward County offers a number of additional resources, including:
- Adult day care
- Caregiver decision-making support
- Respite care
- Help with home maintenance and cleaning
- Case management assistance
The Elderly Services Division is a smaller organization than the Area Agency on Aging, but they do offer some options you might not find there. If they’re unable to help you, they may refer you to state-level resources, private providers, or to the Area Agency on Aging.
State of Florida Resources
Florida’s Department of Elder Affairs also offers a range of dementia resources to Broward County residents. Some resources to consider include:
- The Elder Helpline, which can connect you to local resources
- Florida’s Dementia Care & Cure Initiative, which outlines the state’s dementia management plan and provides useful statistical data
- Florida SHINE, which helps seniors access affordable medical insurance and care
- Florida Senior Legal Services, which connects seniors to free and low-cost care options
The Department of Elder Affairs also offers opportunities for people who wish to volunteer with seniors, access to employment for seniors (including those with early stage dementia), and a number of guides to living with dementia in Florida.
Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association has a Southeast Florida chapter. Join other caregivers at a caregiver support group, network with other people who are living with dementia, or join the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s. They also offer an online community, called ALZConnected, so that you can get support 24/7, wherever you are.
It’s natural to feel afraid when you don’t know what’s coming next. The uncertainty of dementia makes it tough to plan for the future. With the right support, though, you can plan for whatever lies ahead while enjoying every moment. Dementia may ultimately change the way you think and feel, but it does not have to end joy, purpose, and meaningful relationships. To learn more about a thriving existence with dementia, check out our free guide, “Living Well With Dementia.”
