PEE DEE MENTAL HEALTH CENTER ALZHEIMERS DEMENTIA DAY TREATMENT PROGRAM

SILVER YEARS

PURPOSE OF PROGRAM
To provide community based clinical day treatment services for persons with chronic mental illness and symptoms of Dementia/Alzheimers. Goal is to delay advancement of symptoms via provision of stimulation activities and clinical treatment services in a therapeutic environment.

FUNDING
Developed via federal grant funds Administered by SC Department of Mental Health Accepts Medicaid, Medicare, Private Insurance, Self-Pay. No one is denied services due to ability to pay.

SERVICES
Adult Clinical Day Treatment Mental illness Management Psychiatric Medical Assessment Medication Monitoring/Administration Targeted Case Management Assessment Crisis Management Psychiatric Nursing Daily Rate- $70.00 per day

DAILY SCHEDULE
9:00 Morning Exercise Therapy 9:30 Reality Orientation 10:00 Morning Clinical Group 11:30 Modeling/Maintaining Social Skills 12:00 Relaxation Skills 1:00 Arts and Craft Wrap-Up & Departure

STAFF / TRAINING
Program Director MSW with experience in programs for the elderly. Psychiatrist M.D. with experience in geriatric care and Alzheimers population. Nurse MS 3 clinical Counselors Training- AHEC and Department Training Staff has attended Center for Gerontology seminars/training sessions. Staff certified as Dementia Specialist.

CLIENTELE
Ages 58 87 Male and Female Dual Diagnosis Chronic Mental Illness with Dementia /Alzheimers symptoms 30 program slots (maximum) 27 patients currently History with local mental health center

POSTIVE ASPECTS
No one can be denied service Caring and supportive staff with appropriate training Accepts Medicaid and Medicare Community based services Supportive services for families (Case management, Caregivers education sessions, and respite care services)

NEGATIVE ASPECTS
Waiting List Limited scope of treatment due to degree of illness Transportation issues All services not covered by Medicare & Insurance Private pay Significant charges Limited involvement with non-treatment issues

PRATICE IMPLICATIONS
Awareness of specialized needs of geriatric persons with diagnosis of Mental Illness and Dementia/ Alzheimers symptoms. Community based psychiatric treatment services. Potential to replicate program throughout the state.