CE Events
For Nurses, Social Workers, and Others
CAREGIVING FOR DEMENTIA
COURSE CONTENT:
Over five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease and have the most common form of dementia. This number is expected to increase, providing challenges and stress to caregivers. According to the Michigan Dementia Plan, “Dementia-capable health care requires dementia knowledge and competency across all types of health care providers. Not enough professionals demonstrate this competency—and the need for it will intensify as the population ages.”
Learners will increase their knowledge of the pathophysiology of dementias, and identify interventions they can use in their interactions with dementia clients which will reduce stress. They will also increase their knowledge of potential ways to reduce the risk of, or delay the onset of dementia.
This course will explain the various types of dementia including Lewy Body, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease and how they differ in brain pathology but are similar in clinical manifestations and behavioral changes. Recent research will be discussed relevant to the importance of exercise, dietary and lifestyle habits that may reduce the risk of dementia. Methods of interacting successfully with those who do have dementia to reduce agitation or de-escalate anxiety will be covered.
Finally, and equally as important, are strategies caregivers may use to reduce their own stress levels.