Supporting Caregivers

You are not alone.

Supporting a person living with dementia (PLWD) can involve a range of experiences and responsibilities. Whether you are a spouse, family member, friend, or neighbor, your role plays a vital part in their care. This page offers resources, tools, and information to help you navigate that role with confidence.

Understanding Dementia

Dementia refers to a group of conditions that impact memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form. As dementia advances, individuals may require increasing support with daily activities, safety, and communication.

Learn More: Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementias – What is dementia?

Support for Caregivers

Providing care can be a demanding responsibility, and support is important for caregivers as well. The following resources are available to assist you:

Local Support Groups

Connect with others who understand what you are going through.

  • Alzheimer’s Tennessee: Provides both virtual and in-person support groups for caregivers and PLWD. Learn more by visiting alztennessee.org (click Help tab < scroll down).
  • Alzheimer’s Association – TN Chapter: The Caregiver Support Group and Early-Stage Support Group are led by trained facilitators and are available in-person, via phone, or virtual. Learn more by visiting alz.org/tn/support.
  • TN Dementia Navigator Program: Contact TDH Dementia Navigators in your county to inquire about upcoming support groups, both virtual and in-person, in Bradley, Hardeman, Putnam, Morgan/Scott, and Roane Counties.
  • Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer’s Center: In collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association, the Center offers support groups for individuals recently diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early-stage Alzheimer’s disease and their caregiver. Learn more by visiting vumc.org/vmac/support-groups.
  • Vanderbilt Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) Clinic: For caregivers and facilitated by professionals experienced in FTD care, this group meets monthly in the Green Hills neighborhood. Learn more by visiting vumc.org/ftdclinic/caregiver-support.
  • Mental Health America of the Mid-South: The organization provides caregiver support across Middle TN including Caregiver Conversations, one-on-one sessions with Certified Dementia Specialists, and virtual and in-person support groups. Learn more by visiting mhamidsouth.org/caregiver-support and/or Support Group 2025.
  • Abe’s Garden Community: Provides both virtual, for individuals on their waitlist, and in-person support groups for caregivers and PLWD. Learn more by visiting abesgarden.org/support-groups.

To be added to this list email Rochelle.L.Roberts@tn.gov.

Education and Training

Learn how to manage symptoms, improve safety, and reduce stress.

Dementia Navigators

Get one-on-one guidance on resources, care planning, and next steps.

  • TN Dementia Navigator Program: The TN Department of Health (TDH) have embedded five Dementia Navigators within rural health departments, offering in-home assistance to simplify access and coordination for individuals and caregivers. Dementia Navigators are serving 6 counties including: Bradley, Hardeman, Putnam, Morgan/Scott, and Roane Counties.
  • Dementia Health Navigator Program: The TN Department of Disability & Aging (TDDA) have three regional Dementia Health Navigators in Middle, the Upper Cumberland, and West Regions offering consultations through senior centers and in-home visits. Contact: Keita Cole or Jackie Moment for additional information.
  • Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model: Starting July 1, 2025, PLWD and their caregivers who qualify will begin receiving formal notifications about the opportunity to receive coordinated, comprehensive dementia care through a CMS-approved GUIDE Model recipient. These navigators will help with understanding the diagnosis, accessing services, future planning, and managing the challenges of dementia over time.

Respite Services

Respite care offers short-term support for primary or family caregivers who are assisting someone with health or personal care needs, including those related to dementia.

  • Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model: Starting July 1, 2025, PLWD and their caregivers who qualify will begin receiving formal notifications about the opportunity to receive coordinated, comprehensive dementia care through a CMS-approved GUIDE Model recipient. This program offers up to $2,500 per year, per beneficiary, of respite services. This can include in-home care, adult day programs, or short stays in a facility.
  • TN Caregiver Coalition: Offers resources and support for caregivers, including the Family Directed Respite Voucher Program, which helps offset the cost of respite care. Caregivers can choose and train their own respite providers, tailoring care to their specific needs.
  • AgeWell Middle TN: Offers a comprehensive and impartial resource directory for older adults, caregivers, and professionals in the Middle TN region.
  • National Family Caregiver Support Program: NFCSP helps families provide care for older adults with chronic illness or disabilities in their homes. This program is available through Area Agencies on Aging and Disability (AAADs).  
  • Family Support Program: The program is designed to assist individuals with severe disabilities and their families remain in their homes and communities longer. Services can include, but are not limited to, respite care, adult day services, home modifications, equipment, supplies, personal assistance, transportation, homemaker services, housing costs, health-related needs, nursing and counseling. 

Other Helpful Links

Need Help Right Now?

If you are in crisis or urgently need support, contact:

  • Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
  • Alzheimer’s Tennessee 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-259-4283