How do I find a caregiver with experience in dementia? Are there agencies specialized in this area?

While I don't have the specific answer you are looking for, this may help in your search.There is a special program for Home Health Care Agencies to provide training to their caregivers how best to care for Parkinson's Patients. Dementia can be a facet of Parkinson's in the later stages. Here is a link to the Organization that provides the training where you can look for an agency that participates in your area.

https://www.strutherspn.com/front-pageWe use Right at Home in Columbia, SC.

Last I heard, this is the only agency in SC who has become a member and provide training for their caregivers. Maybe you will find one in your area. Even though PD is not all about dementia, I would hope agencies who care enough to offer this special training, they would also recognize that dementia patients need a special level of care as well.

Licensed social worker
LCSW is Certified by state board

Horses: Perhaps you can ask the COA (Council on Aging) in your town.

Care.com or Next Door neighborhood app . People will list their specialties .

I used care.com when my mother obviously needed more help than a few days a week. I was impressed with it and we found someone with dementia experience and she’s an RN as well. Care.com also shows what they charge so you can keep that in mind. The woman we hired charged less than some of the less qualified. My friend, who covers the days she doesn’t, is an RN as well and she spent a few days showing her what she found is needed and she felt the woman knew her stuff.

go on YELP Read The reviews for caregiving agencies . Care.com you Can Interview the people and they will write what they are experienced with . Also the Next door Neighborhood App / website people will Post they are a CNA or nurse looking for work .

Visiting Angels is a national franchise. I used them in south FL and was very happy but then they changed ownership (plus covid plus labor shortage). You will need to specify that you want someone *experienced* with dementia clients. But you should be prepared that clients tend to hang on to the best aids and give them the most hours, so you may have to wait to get the top people. You'll have a better chance if you can guarantee 30+ hrs per week.

I'm sure there are also agencies local to you that are not franchises.

Call agencies in your area and ask. You may also enlist the help of a LSW in your area for suggestions. Try also you local council on aging.

Wishing you the best.