Free Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiver services, advocacy & support
The Navigator Program is a New Canaan grant-based program designed to improve the quality of life for both caregivers and their loved one living with dementia, by providing comprehensive support and access to a wide range of services. Our one-on-one guidance connects community members with resources that makes planning and providing care more manageable.
Flexible Support Through Every Stage of Caregiving
From the very first call, we learn about your family's situation and build support around what you need. When things change, so do the resources we provide. All communications are confidential.
Care Coordination
Guide families through the complexities of care coordination, discharge transitions, and advanced care planning.
Increased Respite Time for Caregivers
Access to the Navigator Adult Day Program in New Canaan, a respite apartment at The Village (Memory Care at Waveny), and respite care at home.
One-to-One and Group Support
24/7 direct access to a dementia specialist, mobile app access, and monthly caregiver support groups.
Education on Care Progression
We help participants find relevant information and host education sessions in the community.
Caregiving Tools & Strategies
We offer practical caregiving tips that help families feel more prepared, confident, and supported as they care for a loved one living with cognitive decline.
Priority Access to Resources
Enrollees gain priority access to Waveny LifeCare Network's continuum of care, and trusted resources outside the network including cognitive stimulating activities, medical and non-medical services, financial and legal support.
Joyful Days for Them, Peace of Mind for You.
Living with dementia should not mean missing out on opportunities for joy, activity, friendship, and meaningful connection. The Adult Day Program is designed to provide attendees with fulfilling days spent among peers, in a safe and comfortable environment. With a local New Canaan setting and flexible attendance options, the Adult Day Program offers adults with dementia structured, social engagement and gives caregivers time to run errands, see friends, attend appointments, or simply relax.
Navigator Program Testimonial
I didn’t know what to expect from the program but after participating in the Navigator program, I have found support that I couldn’t find anywhere else. The programs and services are outstanding. The commitment from the staff is felt with every contact I have with them. I can’t say enough about this program and would encourage anyone to seriously consider joining this outstanding program with so many services for support.
— Anonymous Navigator Participant
Frequently asked questions
The Navigator Program is available to caregivers and people living with dementia, one of whom has a New Canaan address. Both do not need to have a New Canaan address.
Every caregiving situation is unique. If multiple care partners or family members share the responsibility of providing care to their loved one living with dementia, then multiple people can enroll.
The Navigator Program is for all types and stages of dementia. In fact, we encourage enrollment in earlier stages to assist with planning ahead.
The Navigator Program is an entirely grant-based program and completely free of charge for participants.
There are no obligations when you enroll in the Navigator program. We are here when you need us! While we encourage regular check-ins to anticipate any changes and take a proactive approach to the guidance and support we can offer, no one is obligated to reach out or speak with the team on a regular basis. As a concierge service, we develop a unique plan of support for each individual aligned with your wants and needs.
To attend the adult day program, the care partner and their loved one living with dementia must be enrolled in the Navigator Program.
The Navigator team does not directly provide clinical services, but we can refer clients to Waveny's clinical services, as well as services outside of Waveny LifeCare Network. The Navigator team provides care management services—guidance, education, planning, and support—as well as healthcare and non-medical care coordination.
The Navigator Program provides 24/7 access to a team of dementia specialists that offer personalized guidance and support to individuals with dementia and their families. They can help navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinate care, assist with discharge planning, provide education and resources, and connect care partners with local activities and services for their loved one. The Navigator team also provides respite and self-care opportunities for care partners, including exclusive access to an adult day program.
In addition the Navigator Program provides comprehensive emotional and decision-making support for care partners through: Emotional Validation (one-on-one and group sessions, in-person or virtual, designed to normalize the guilt and grief inherent in dementia care), Expert Guidance (acting as a professional sounding board to offer perspective and clarity when families are faced with difficult care transitions), and Peer Connection (facilitating monthly support groups to reduce isolation and foster shared community experiences).
Yes, all communications with the Navigators are confidential as the Navigator team follows HIPAA guidelines.
Reach out to a Navigator at 203-594-5289 or Navigator@waveny.org and our team will walk you through what to expect for your family's specific situation.
Contact Us
To learn more about joining The Navigator Program and the resources that are available, please contact us or complete the form and we will get back to you.
