This live virtual course provides caregivers with a comprehensive foundation for understanding dementia and supporting individuals experiencing cognitive decline. 

Through instructor-led discussion, real-life examples, and interactive activities, participants explore how dementia affects the brain, behavior, communication, and daily functioning. 

The course covers common types of dementia, conditions that may appear similar to dementia, and the progression of symptoms. Caregivers learn practical strategies for responding to hallucinations and delusions, supporting activities of daily living, and creating positive interactions that enhance quality of life. 

The training also emphasizes effective communication, trauma-informed care, and approaches for responding to challenging behaviors while maintaining dignity and safety. 

By the end of the course, caregivers will be better prepared to provide compassionate, person-centered support to individuals living with dementia and to collaborate effectively with families and care teams.

Learning Objectives:

1. Define dementia and distinguish it from conditions that may appear similar, such as depression, delirium, urinary tract infections, or mild cognitive impairment.

2. Identify common signs, symptoms, and types of dementia and describe how dementia affects the brain and behavior.

3. Recognize hallucinations and delusions associated with dementia and identify possible physical, emotional, and environmental causes.

4. Apply strategies that create positive interactions and supportive environments to enhance quality of life.

5. Recognize common emotions and challenges experienced by family members and identify ways to support them.

6. Apply strategies to assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) while promoting independence and dignity.

7. Use effective verbal and nonverbal communication strategies when interacting with individuals with dementia.

8. Recognize how past trauma can influence behavior and apply trauma-informed care approaches.

9. Identify triggers and strategies for responding to challenging behaviors commonly associated with dementia.