The Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI) program provides community-based services for the special needs of individuals aged 18+ with Alzheimer's disease and related memory disorders. There is a co-pay fee required of clients receiving services. Examples of services provided are case management, respite care and caregiver training & support.

History

In 1985, the Florida state legislature created The Alzheimer's Disease Initiative to provide services and training to meet the special needs of individuals suffering from Alzheimer's disease and related memory disorders. ADI also provides funding for caregiver needs.

ADI has four major components, each of which is devoted to meeting the service, research and training needs of Floridians stricken by Alzheimer's disease and related dementia. These components are: A ten member advisory committee appointed by the Governor; eight memory disorder clinics located throughout Florida; Model Day Care programs, and Respite Care Programs.

Legislative changes made to ADI by the Florida Legislature over the years include the addition of two Memory Disorder Clinics, a requirement for providers to collect co-pay fees for service, and the provision of caregiver training as a new service. Within PSA 5, respite care is a funded service under ADI and is provided by the lead agencies in Pasco and Pinellas counties.

ADI funds are administered through the Department of Elder Affairs. Area Agencies on Aging are responsible for administering funds at the local level. Services of the ADI program focus on providing respite care for caregivers of persons suffering from Alzheimer's disease or other related dementia, offering them some weekly relief from the constant demands of caregiving. ADI services help eligible consumers to remain in their homes or the home of a caregiver rather than relocating to an institution or nursing home because of unmet personal care needs.