• Recall the ways the brain changes in a people with dementia (PWD) and
  Alzheimer’s Disease and its affect on function and behavior.
• Describe the communication changes that take place throughout the course of dementia and/or Alzheimer’s disease.
• Define strategies for decoding the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia and respond in ways that are helpful to the person.
• Describe the importance of providing personalized, tailored, patient-centered care that is based on patient preferences.
• Identify patient-centered strategies to connect and communication at each stage of the disease, including verbal, non-verbal or written communication.
• Recall examples of words to utilize that are empowering and enriching, and words and terminology to avoid.
• Recall examples of how to perform active listening.
• Describe communication considerations based on varying cultures of individuals and their families.

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify the assessment and treatment of pain in dementia patients.
• Describe pain measurement and scales when a patient is confused.
• Learn activities and options that can assist a patient during a skilled nursing stay.
• Recall the need for staff training and utilizing particular staff members during the stay.
• Recall recommended competencies for direct care workers serving individuals with dementia.

Learning Outcomes:

• Recognize the extent of dementia care needs in your service area.
• Describe QAPI tools.
• Identify methods to describe and track dementia in your facility.
• Recall the need for staff training on QAPI and dementia care.

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify common conflicting messages and stigma’s related to dementia.
• Differentiate between general memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Differentiate between irreversible and reversible dementia.
• Describe methods to differentiate between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Describe the symptoms and effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Describe how dementia and Alzheimer’s affects the brain.
• Describe the stages of the disease(s).
• Identify the benefits of early detection.
• Identify causes and risk factors of dementia.
• Describe the steps included in a clinical assessment of a patient.
• Outline the treatment and common medications provided to patients.
• Describe patient-centered methods to utilize to help patients address impairments related to dementia or a
  diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Describe ways DCWs can promote early diagnosis.
• Identify actions direct care workers can take to help reduce stigmas and stereotypes related to dementia.
• Describe methods to help family members or caregivers to address impairments related to dementia or a
  diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
•  Identify resources and organizations that can help patients and family members with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Learning Outcomes:

• Describe the patients more likely to be impacted by dementia and the types of dementia seen in healthcare settings.
• Describe training programs available for those who care for individuals with dementia.
• Review how nursing home dementia education can help other healthcare providers.

Learning Outcomes:

• Describe current national data addressing dementia patients prone to an increased risk of readmission to a hospital.
• Define co-morbidities readmissions more likely to be impacted by dementia as a diagnosis.
• Identify discharge options and poor social support impact on discharging to a community setting.
• Describe the role of Case Managers in taking the lead in determining the impact locally in the next five years.