NorthStar is owned and managed by Marie Fay Occupational Therapist (OT). A local leader in the field of Dementia care in Bermuda. A Masters level therapist, she brings 20 years of clinical experience supporting individuals with dementia to continue living life to the fullest. Having been personally touched by dementia, Marie has made it her goal to assist her clients with successfully aging at home with the support of their family caregivers to reduce the overall cost and burden of care for this vulnerable population. Marie is an Executive Member of the Board of Occupational Therapists, a member of the Bermuda Occupational Therapy Association, and Chairperson and Founder of the Bermuda Dementia Alliance.
Current Challenges
Lack of community based dementia care and support services in Bermuda have led to an increase in care crisis scenarios, including caregiver burnout, unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalization, premature long term care placement and senior abuse and neglect cases. At present there is no insurance coverage under the Standard Health Benefit for dementia care.
Impact of Dementia in Bermuda
- There are more than 3000 Bermudians currently living with a diagnosis of Dementia
- Seniors aged 65+ will account for 24.9% of Bermuda’s population by 2026
- 1 in 3 Seniors will die with some form of Dementia
- 80% of dementia care is undertaken by family members who report high levels of caregiver stress and burnout
- 75% of clients living with Dementia are uninsured or under insured, and unable to afford the out of pocket expense for essential dementia care and support services
Offering Solutions
As the numbers of those living with dementia in Bermuda continue to rise placing greater demands on an already strained health care system, NorthStar’s evidence based and client-centered consultation services can improve the safety, independence and quality of life of persons with dementia and their caregivers. Our goal is to assist clients to successfully age in place at home with the support of their family caregivers to reduce the overall cost and burden of care for this vulnerable population.
