Living alone with dementia: Supportive care for dementia, a replicable model for support and lessons learned

IntroductionCurrent support programs for individuals with dementia focus primarily on patients living with caregivers. Research on individuals with dementia living alone is sparse, with small sample sizes. This report describes data collected from the Supportive Care for Dementia program. The program's goals are to provide support services that allow the person to remain in their residence, increase involvement and decrease the stress experienced by family members, reduce neurobehavioral disturbances, reduce hospitalizations and emergency room visits and related costs, and facilitate placement or caregiving support when appropriate.MethodsThe data were collected from 300 patients enrolled in the Supportive Care for Dementia program. Measurements included patient behaviors, distant caregiver stress, hospitalizations and emergency room visits, and provided services.ResultsProgram participation was associated with positive outcomes, including decreased emergency room visits, decreased distant caregiver stress, and increased supportive services and familial engagement. Demographic data including racial and ethnic differences are discussed.DiscussionThe Supportive Care for Dementia program is a replicable program with demonstrated positive outcomes for individuals with dementia living alone.