The Head, Hands, Heart Program

The Head, Hands, Heart Dementia Assessment System was originally designed as a tool for educating rehabilitation professionals on the best approaches for treating clients with dementia. The Program was so easy to use and understand, it became and effective tool for helping caregivers understanding and manage each level of dementia. The three general stages of dementia are characterized by the Program’s title:

• Head- Early stage dementia
• Hands- Middle stage dementia
• Heart- Late/end stage dementia

Although standardized testing is used to determine objective findings, most caregivers do not fully benefit by knowing these results. Putting the results into a simplified context (Head, Hands, and Heart) gives caregivers a better understanding of how the results translate into function.

Head, Hands, Heart Pathway

Each client with a known or suspected diagnosis of dementia will be assessed and treated according to an individualized treatment plan. The full evaluation includes a comprehensive cognitive and functional assessment.

At the completion of the program, a full written report is provided to the physician, family, and other caregivers describing all assessment findings, strengths, weaknesses, and recommendations. Follow up screenings are recommended at 3, 6, or 12 months to determine if there is a need for reassessment and changes in interventions.

Assessment Tools

Each client is assessed using a combination of appropriate tools specific to the client’s needs. Functional assessment tools utilized include:

• Allen Cognitive Scale
• Global Deterioration Scale
• Brief Cognitive Rating Scale
• Routine Task Inventory
• Clock Drawing Test
• Confusion Assessment Method
• Digit Repetition Test
• Mini Mental Exam
• Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire
• Time and Change Test
• Trail Making Test
• Functional Visual Assessment

Identifying Program Participants

Any person with a known or suspected diagnosis of dementia is an excellent candidate for the Head, Hands, Heart Dementia Assessment System.
Risk factors:

• Memory loss
• Personality changes
• Concentration
• Visual problems
• Sleep cycle disturbances
• Judgment and problem solving errors
• Word finding and speech problems

Insurance Coverage

• Medicare Part A covers therapy at 100% if patient is homebound.
• Medicare Part B covers therapy at 80% with no homebound restrictions; secondary insurance usually covers the 20% once deductible and copay are met.
• Private insurances usually accepted- reviewed on an individual basis
• Self pay