A Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)-created video released September 21, 2026, describes the challenges being navigated by over six million individuals with living with dementia and their caregivers in the U.S., and introduces the GUIDE (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) model as a source of assistance.
Numerous LeadingAge members who lead and/or deliver services through the GUIDE model, speaking at a recent LeadingAge convening, cited families’ and physicians’ lack of GUIDE program familiarity as a top barrier to increasing overall participation and use of its free benefits to those living with dementia.
The short CMS video is a tool to help raise awareness about GUIDE; it also includes a link to a website with such useful information for users as how to find a GUIDE program in their area. In addition, this Dementia Care Pathways Infographic offers a succinct overview of GUIDE program services.
Members are encouraged to share these resources with individuals and families–though it is important to note that eligibility is limited; GUIDE is available only to those individuals who are in traditional Medicare fee for services (FFS), live in the community (including assisted living but not nursing homes or memory care units) and have a confirmed dementia diagnosis (though a GUIDE clinician can assist with a determination, as appropriate).
