Dementias: Assessment, Communication Strategies, and Planning

Fulfills requirement: State of Illinois requirements for one hour of continuing education in dementias

As the prevalence of dementia continues to rise, clinicians are faced with the challenge of offering comprehensive, individualized care that addresses the unique needs of people with dementia and that supports their loved ones. Dementia is not a single disease but a syndrome that involves memory loss, difficulties with behavior and cognition, and decline in everyday adaptive functioning. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form, but others include vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia, each presenting with distinct approaches to diagnosis and care.

This advanced beginner/intermediate course is designed to equip healthcare professionals who work with adults with a basic understanding of dementias. Particular emphasis is given to assessment and diagnosis, effective communication strategies, and managing and planning dementia care. This course meets the State of Illinois’ requirements for one credit of continuing education in dementias. Materials are available in written and audio formats.

Although not officially part of the course, supplementary materials include information from the National Institutes of Health on dementias, frontotemporal disorders, and Lewy body dementia.