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Medical Aid Schemes that Cover Dementia (🇿🇦 2025*)

💙 Do you have worries regarding dementia coverage within South African medical aid? This write-up delves into the fundamentals of this disease, covering its symptoms and treatment alternatives.

💙 Moreover, it highlights specific Medical Aid Schemes that benefit those affected by Dementia to help with healthcare planning.

💙 Dementia is a long-term, often progressive condition requiring ongoing medical attention and care. Given the prevalence of Dementia and the complexity of treatment, many Medical Aid Schemes in South Africa include dementia benefits.

💙 This coverage lessens the financial burden on families and ensures patients receive the necessary medical care.

👉 In this article you will learn:

✅ Best Medical Aid Schemes that Cover Dementia in South Africa (2025) – a list
✅ Does Discovery Health, GEMS and Bonitas cover frail care in South Africa?
✅ Medical Aid Plans that cover Dementia for pensioners / elderly persons
✅ Does Momentum health cover advanced illness?
✅ Does Discovery pay for Home Care?
✅ How long can a person with Dementia be cared for at home?

Medical Aid Schemes that Cover Dementia – a Comparison

🔎 Providers	❤️ Covers Dementia	↪️ Top Plan that covers Dementia
🥇 BestMed	❌ No	Pace 3
🥈 Bonitas	❌ No	Standard
🥉 Cape Medical Plan	✅ Yes (Limited)	HealthPact Premium
🏅 CompCare	✅ Yes	ExecuCarePlus
🏆 Discovery Health	❌ No	Comprehensive Classic
🥇 FedHealth	✅ Yes	FlexiFed 3
🥈 Genesis	✅ Yes	MED-200 Plus
🥉 Siswe Hosmed	✅ Yes	Platinum Enhanced
🏅 KeyHealth	✅ Yes	Platinum
🎖️ Makoti	✅ Yes	Comprehensive Option
🥇 MediHelp	✅ Yes	MedPrime
🏆 MediMed	✅ Yes	Alpha
🥇 Medshield	✅ Yes	MediCore
🥈 Momentum Health	✅ Yes	Custom
🥉 SureMed	✅ Yes	Shuttle
🏅 Thebemed	✅ Yes	Fantasy

Medical Aid Schemes that Cover Dementia (2025)

☑️ Bestmed – Impressive Medicine and offering a variety of comprehensive healthcare plans
☑️ Bonitas – Provides Managed Care and Support Programmes
☑️ Cape Medical Plan – Covers Dementia disease treatment and committed to providing high-quality healthcare
☑️ CompCare – Cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia
☑️ Discovery Health – Overall, the Best Medical Scheme focusing on preventive healthcare in South Africa
☑️ Genesis – Suited for elderly / pensioners who require in-hospital Cover
☑️ Sizwe Hosmed – Covers partially Dementia Disease
☑️ Keyhealth – Budget Friendly Medical Scheme
☑️ Makoti Medical Scheme – Access to Generous cover across a wide range of service
☑️ Medihelp – Limited covers regarding home care and other medical services
☑️ Medimed – Limited cover for costs related to the diagnosis, treatment, and care of Dementia
☑️ Medshield – Offers an all-inclusive range of day-to-day and in-hospital benefits.
☑️ Momentum Health – Affordable Medical Aid with Tailored Benefits
☑️ SureMed – Covers Dementia amongst other benefits of CDL
☑️ Thebemed – Well-Established South African Medical Services Provider

What is Dementia?

Overview of Dementia

💙 Dementia is a broad term that refers to a group of medical conditions characterized by a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. Memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgment are all affected.

💙 Dementia is most common in older adults but is not a normal part of ageing. It can be caused by various brain diseases and injuries, such as Alzheimer’s or stroke.

Dementia Stats in South Africa

💙 According to recent studies, the prevalence of Dementia in South African adults aged 50 and up is between 2.4% and 12.5%. A study conducted in a rural Xhosa-speaking population discovered a prevalence estimate of 11% for those aged 65 and up.

💙 According to the 2011 South African census, there are approximately 2.2 million people in the country who have Dementia.

💙 Furthermore, it is estimated that nearly 300,000 people in southern Africa had Dementia in 2019, with this figure expected to rise by 185% by mid-century, reaching around 830,000 cases by 2050.

💙 Some factors that slow the detection of Dementia in Africa include a shortage of skilled medical specialists, such as geriatricians and the inaccessibility of expensive diagnostic brain scan technology.

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Can Dementia be cured, and how?

💙 Currently, there is no cure for Dementia; however, medications and therapies are available to help ease symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.

💙 Treatment typically involves a comprehensive approach that includes medication options like cholinesterase inhibitors and non-medical methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and lifestyle modifications.

💙 Therefore, detecting this condition early on can be beneficial in achieving effective treatment outcomes.

Dementia Curability and Management

💙 While Dementia cannot be cured, its symptoms can often be effectively managed, allowing patients to maintain a certain level of independence and quality of life.

💙 Medication to control symptoms, physical and occupational therapy to assist with mobility and daily tasks, and psychological support for the patient and their family are all management strategies.

💙 In South Africa, various Medical Aid Schemes provide benefits that cover various aspects of dementia care, from diagnosis to long-term management, making it easier for families to deal with the disease’s financial and emotional burden.

Dementia Symptoms

👉 The following are some of the common symptoms of Dementia:

✅ Memory Loss
✅ Loss of Ability in Complex Tasks
✅ Changes in Behaviour
✅ Difficulty in Concentration
✅ Disorientation
✅ Language Problems
✅ Impaired Judgment
✅ Apathy
✅ Hallucinations and Delusions
✅ Mood Swings

Memory Loss

💙 One of the most common and early symptoms of Dementia is memory loss. It frequently begins with forgetting recent events or conversations, which can annoy the individual and their family.

💙 This symptom is frequently confused with age-related memory decline in South Africa, but distinguishing between the two is critical for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Loss of Abilities in Complex Tasks

💙 As Dementia advances, individuals may experience a decline in their capacity to carry out intricate activities. This comprises tasks that involve planning, organizing, and juggling multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

💙 Such deterioration can adversely affect one’s proficiency to oversee household duties such as managing finances or healthcare-related matters, which often demand sophisticated skills for effective administration.

Changes in Behavior

💙 Behavioral changes can occur, such as heightened restlessness, hostility, or unsuitable conduct. These alterations may cause distress for families and caretakers alike, potentially requiring specialized attention and intervention measures.

Difficulty in Concentration

💙 Maintaining focus on tasks or comprehending conversations can be particularly challenging for seniors with Dementia.

💙 This lack of concentration can hinder daily activities such as preparing meals, driving and self-care. For elderly individuals in South Africa who are still actively involved in community and family responsibilities, this symptom may cause even greater distress.

Disorientation

💙 People who have Dementia often encounter disorientation, such as losing track of time or feeling bewildered in familiar surroundings.

💙 This manifestation is especially alarming in the context of South Africa owing to concerns about public safety, particularly among vulnerable groups like individuals dealing with Dementia.

Language Problems

💙 Language difficulties can range from finding the right words during a conversation to remembering the names of commonplace objects.

Impaired Judgment

💙 Dementia can impair one’s ability to make rational decisions. Impaired judgment can manifest in various ways, including poor financial decisions and inappropriate social behavior. Furthermore, this can significantly impact family dynamics and well-being in South Africa.

Apathy

💙 Dementia often exhibits apathy, which comprises a strong absence of enthusiasm, drive, and initiative. Those with Dementia may not express interest in activities or withdraw from social engagements while showing no zeal for their environment overall.

💙 This separation from feelings and behavior can adversely affect the person’s daily functioning and markedly reduce their quality of life.

Hallucinations and Delusions

💙 Delusions and hallucinations are common symptoms of Dementia. Perceiving things that are not there, such as seeing or hearing nonexistent objects or people, is a hallmark of hallucinations. Delusions are false beliefs that a person with Dementia may hold firmly.

💙 They are often paranoid or irrational. These symptoms can have a significant impact on a person’s perception of reality and daily functioning, further complicating dementia care.

Mood Swings

💙 Dementia can cause rapid mood changes, ranging from calm to tears to anger in a matter of minutes. Understanding and managing these mood swings can be difficult for caregivers, and South African healthcare services are increasingly focusing their support in this area.

Dementia Treatment

👉 Dementia can be treated in the following ways:

✅ Alternative Therapies: Music Therapy, Art Therapy
✅ Supportive Care: Palliative Care, Respite Care
✅ Pharmacological Treatments: Cholinesterase Inhibitors, Memantine
✅ Lifestyle Changes: Diet and Nutrition, Physical Exercise
✅ Non-Pharmacological Treatments: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Occupational Therapy

Alternative Therapies

Music Therapy

💙 The utilization of music in therapy serves to fulfill various bodily, intellectual, and emotional requirements.

💙 Within South Africa, the employment of this method has grown in popularity due to its successful reduction of symptoms related to Dementia.

💙 Nonetheless, certain healthcare providers may not include these interventions within their coverage policies, causing a potential financial burden for patients seeking such aid.

Art Therapy

💙 Art therapy is a therapeutic approach that allows individuals to convey their emotions and feelings through creative expression, providing an effective outlet for those dealing with Dementia.

💙 While not as frequently employed in South Africa as other therapies, its usage has increased among caregivers searching for supplementary solutions to ease symptoms associated with this condition.

Supportive Care

Palliative Care

💙 Supportive care, also known as palliative care, is geared towards enhancing the well-being of individuals with severe conditions like Dementia. South African healthcare providers are now more inclined to incorporate this service into their approach to managing advanced-stage dementia patients.

💙 The objective is to optimize their overall quality of life and reduce distressing symptoms associated with the illness.

Respite Care

💙 Respite care provides caregivers with temporary relief, allowing them to step away from the daily routine of caring for a dementia patient. Respite care services are available in South Africa, but their accessibility varies depending on the Medical Aid Scheme and location.

Pharmacological Treatments

Cholinesterase Inhibitors

💙 Donepezil, Rivastigmine, and Galantamine are popularly utilized as cholinesterase inhibitors for alleviating dementia symptoms linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

💙 These medicines enhance memory and cognitive function by elevating neurotransmitter concentrations in the brain. Their essentiality is reflected by their coverage under Medical Aid Schemes within South Africa, making them more accessible to patients.

Memantine

💙 Another medication used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease is memantine. It controls glutamate activity, a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory. This medication is typically covered by Medical Aid Schemes in South Africa, though availability may vary.

Lifestyle Changes

Diet and Nutrition

💙 Emphasizing a nutritious diet that includes antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other vital nutrients can effectively assist in handling the symptoms of Dementia.

💙 In South Africa, where ailments linked to food are prevalent, prioritizing good nutrition plays an important role in caring for people with Dementia.

Physical Exercise

💙 Physical activity regularly has been shown to improve cognitive function and may slow the progression of Dementia. Various community programs and healthcare providers in South Africa encourage physical activity as part of a holistic approach to dementia care.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

💙 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT for short, is a psychological treatment that can assist in managing behavioral symptoms linked to Dementia, including depression and anxiety.

💙 In South Africa, the effectiveness of CBT as a treatment has gained recognition over time and is now frequently integrated into comprehensive care plans for individuals with Dementia.

Occupational Therapy

💙 By teaching coping strategies for daily activities, occupational therapy aims to help people with Dementia maintain their independence.

💙 Occupational therapy services are available in both public and private healthcare settings in South Africa, though access varies depending on location and the Medical Aid Scheme.

Medical Aid Schemes that Include Benefits for Dementia

Bestmed

💙 Bestmed’s dedication to quality is reflected in its accreditation by South Africa’s leading healthcare organizations.

💙 Make sure that you have regular health assessments (HRAs), which check your blood pressure, as well as your cholesterol and blood sugar levels. If are diagnosed with hypertension, high cholesterol and/or diabetes, make sure that you follow your healthcare practitioner’s advice and take your prescribed medication.

💙 All Bestmed beneficiaries are entitled to one free HRA per year at a participating pharmacy. The HRA unlocks your Bestmed Tempo wellness programme benefits, including visits to a network dietician and biokineticist for overall well-being.

Does Bestmed cover Dementia?

🚫 No, Bestmed does not cover Dementia.

Bonitas

💙 Bonitas Medical Aid is a leading healthcare provider in South Africa, with various plans to meet various needs. It was founded in 1982 and has become synonymous with high-quality healthcare solutions.

Does Bonitas cover Dementia?

🚫 No, Bonitas does not cover Dementia.

Cape Medical Plan

💙 Cape Medical Plan is committed to providing high-quality healthcare without breaking the bank. Its plans are designed to provide both quality and affordability.

Does Cape Medical Plan cover Dementia?

💙 Cape Medical Plan might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Cape Medical Plan Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Cape Medical Plan Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

CompCare

💙 CompCare’s medical aid plans are tailored to the modern individual. Their digital platforms provide accessible healthcare services anytime and from any location.

Does CompCare cover Dementia?

💙 CompCare might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

CompCare Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following CompCare Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Discovery Health

💙 Discovery Health, focusing on preventive healthcare, provides a holistic approach to well-being, ensuring that physical and mental health is prioritized.

Does Discovery Health cover Dementia?

🚫 No, Discovery Health does not cover Dementia. However, medication for this disease might be paid under plans with day-to-day benefits.

Fedhealth

💙 Fedhealth is a beacon of comprehensive medical coverage in South Africa, offering various plans to meet various healthcare needs.

Does Fedhealth cover Dementia?

✅ Yes, Fedhealth covers Dementia under FlexiFED 3, subject to pre-approval and clinical review.

Fedhealth Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Fedhealth Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

✅ FlexiFED 3

Genesis Medical Scheme

💙 Genesis Medical Scheme is a well-known South African healthcare name that provides high-quality medical services.

Does Genesis Medical Scheme cover Dementia?

✅ Yes, Genesis Medical Scheme covers hospitalization for dementia-related conditions.

Genesis Medical Scheme Plans that Cover Dementia

👉The following Genesis Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Sizwe Hosmed

💙 Sizwe Hosmed stands out in South Africa for its dedication to affordable and accessible healthcare solutions.

Does Sizwe Hosmed cover Dementia?

💙 Sizwe Hosmed might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Sizwe Hosmed Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Sizwe Hosmed Medical Aid Plans might provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Keyhealth

💙 The Keyhealth ethos of ‘keeping it simple’ appeals to those seeking hassle-free medical aid solutions.

Does Keyhealth cover Dementia?

💙 Keyhealth might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Keyhealth Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Keyhealth Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Makoti Medical Scheme

💙 Makoti Medical Scheme, known for its grassroots impact, has redefined what it means to be a community-based medical aid provider.

Does Makoti Medical Scheme cover Dementia?

💙 Makoti Medical Scheme might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Makoti Medical Scheme Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Makoti Medical Aid Plans might provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Medihelp

💙 Medihelp has consistently met the unique needs of its members as a leader in personalized healthcare.

Does Medihelp cover Dementia?

💙 Medihelp might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Medihelp Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Medihelp Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Medimed Medical Scheme

💙 Medimed is more than a medical aid program; it is an individualized healthcare experience.

Does Medimed cover Dementia?

💙 Medimed might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Medimed Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Medimed Medical Aid Plans might provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Medshield

💙 Medshield is a popular option for those looking for a reliable medical aid program due to its reputation for financial stability.

Does Medshield cover Dementia?

💙 Medshield might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Medshield Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Medshield Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Momentum Health

💙 When it comes to responsible healthcare, Momentum Health sets the standard by focusing on ethics and sustainability.

Does Momentum Health cover Dementia?

💙 Momentum Health might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Momentum Health Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Momentum Health Medical Aid Plans might provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Suremed

💙 Suremed offers a well-rounded healthcare approach that emphasizes curative and preventative measures.

Does Suremed cover Dementia?

✅ Yes, Suremed provides comprehensive cover for Dementia across all medical aid plans.

Suremed Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Suremed Health Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

Thebemed

💙 Offering a mix of traditional values and modern efficiency, Thebemed is changing how medical aid is given.

Does Thebemed cover Dementia?

💙 Thebemed might cover symptoms and medication relating to Dementia. However, policy information needs to provide comprehensive information regarding this.

Thebemed Plans that Cover Dementia

👉 The following Thebemed Health Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Dementia:

In Conclusion

💙 Dementia is a long-term, often progressive condition requiring ongoing medical attention and care. Given the prevalence of Dementia and the complexity of treatment, many Medical Aid Schemes in South Africa include dementia benefits.

💙 This coverage lessens the financial burden on families and ensures patients receive the necessary medical care.

👉 You might also like: Discovery Health Review

👉 You might also like: Bestmed Review

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👉 You might also like: Medihelp Review

👉 You might also like: Momentum Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Is care for Dementia patients free in South Africa?

No, dementia care in South Africa is not generally free; costs vary depending on the type of care and treatment required.

Does medical aid cover dementia care?

Yes, many South African Medical Aid Schemes provide benefits that cover various aspects of dementia care, from diagnosis to long-term management.

What support is available for dementia patients in South Africa?

Medical treatments, therapies, community programs, and specialized care facilities are available, with access varying depending on location and the Medical Aid Scheme.

Does Discovery pay for dementia care?

Yes, Discovery Health, one of South Africa’s leading Medical Aid Schemes, generally covers dementia care, though the extent of coverage varies depending on the plan selected.

How much does Dementia care cost in South Africa?

The cost of dementia care in South Africa can vary greatly, from outpatient treatments to specialized care facilities, and can be financially burdensome if medical aid is not available.

Can you get dementia care at home in South Africa?

Yes, there are home-based dementia care services available in South Africa, though availability and cost vary depending on location and the Medical Aid Scheme.

What are the 7 stages of Dementia?

The seven stages are Stage 1 – no impairment, Stage 2 – very mild cognitive decline, Stage 3 – mild cognitive decline, Stage 4 – moderate cognitive decline, Stage 5 – moderately severe cognitive decline, Stage 6 – severe cognitive decline, and Stage 7 – very severe cognitive decline.

Can you claim disability for Dementia?

Yes, Dementia is considered a disabling condition in South Africa, and individuals may qualify for disability benefits based on the severity and impact on their daily lives.

Is Dementia a medical condition or a disability?

Dementia is primarily a medical condition characterized by a decline in cognitive function. Still, it can also be classified as a disability when it has a significant impact on daily functioning.

What should you not do with Dementia?

It is essential to avoid arguing or confronting dementia patients in a way that may cause them stress or confusion, as this can exacerbate their symptoms.

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Adriaan Schoeman

Adriaan holds an MBA and specializes in medical aid research. With his commitment to perfection, he ensures the accuracy of all data presented on medicalaid.com every three months. When he is not conducting research, Adriaan can be found indulging in his passion for trout fishing amidst nature.