Washington is focusing on family caregivers through the Initiative 2 of the Medicaid Transformation, long-term services and supports.
Long-term services and supports (LTSS), Initiative 2 of the Healthier Washington Medicaid Transformation, has been ranked first in the nation by AARP for its high performance in supporting seniors, adults with disabilities, and their family caregivers.
Washington will build on these successes, to create a "next generation" care system supporting families who care for their loved ones at home. Unpaid caregivers also provide a service to the state by delaying or avoiding the need for more intensive Medicaid-funded services.
Learn more about Initiative 2.
Tailored Supports for Older Adults (TSOA) is a program funded under Initiative 2 of the Healthier Washington Medicaid Transformation. Here is an example of how TSOA is helping unpaid caregivers and the people they care for:
"Samuel" suffers from dementia; his wife, "Anne," is his devoted caregiver. Full-time care was becoming overwhelming for Anne; Samuel followed her around all day, asking questions. Anne needed help.
TSOA benefits are now enabling Samuel to attend Adult Day Health (ADH) two days each week. This has allowed Anne a much-needed break to take care of herself. On the days Samuel goes to his ADH program, he comes home tired and sleeps well. Anne has more energy to care for him on the days he is home. They are both benefiting from TSOA.
The Area Agencies on Aging have outreach campaigns underway throughout the state. Here is an example from the Pierce County AAA.
Holiday visiting: Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease doesn't mean you can't enjoy holiday company. Visits with family and friends can cheer and entertain a person with dementia, even if names and relationships are forgotten.
Healthy eating and hydration will help boost your energy and your holiday spirits. Enjoy holiday treats in moderation, but add extra vegetables and a big glass of water to all your meals.
Manage holiday stress with 30 minutes of exercise a day and healthy eating. Take time to relax, visit with friends and family, and enjoy the beauty of the winter season.
Coping with grief, your own or a loved one's, can be especially tough during holidays. Plan ahead with friends and family, seek counseling or spiritual guidance, and keep favorite books, music or movies close at hand. If old traditions are comforting, revel in them. If not, try something new. Most of all, be patient with yourself and others.
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