Hospital Training and Procedures for Patients with Suspected Dementia

Along with the increase in size of Connecticut’s aging population, there has also been a rise in the number of Alzheimer’s diagnoses affecting the state.  To tackle this challenge, hospital staff members who provide direct care to patients will receive training on how to identify the symptoms of dementia.  This will help these staff members know what to look for and how to treat patients better.  

Patient-Designated Caregivers

Some patients end up returning to the hospital soon after discharge because they had not been instructed properly on their follow-up care or were unable to follow instructions. Under the CARE Act (Caregiver Advise, Record, Enable), a hospital must assign a caregiver, designated by the patient, in the patient’s discharge plan. They must attempt to notify the caregiver of the patient’s discharge, and to instruct the caregiver on any post-discharge tasks with which the patient will need assistance.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Many long-term care policies will pay for at least some in-home care. Be sure to consult your insurance company or agent. For more information about getting Long-Term Care Insurance, contact the Connecticut Partnership for Long-Term Care at 1-800-547-3443.

Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE)

Low-to-moderate-income families caring for someone 65 or over at home, who would otherwise be at risk of nursing home placement, can apply to this program. There are different levels of eligibility based on income and/or assets. For more information, and to receive an application or make a referral, call the Alternate Care Unit at CT’s Department of Social Services 1-800-445-5394.