Staff Education and Training – More than Compliance

A recent conversation among long-term care leaders illuminated current beliefs about staff training and education in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.  While one participant asked how many hours of training is necessary for staff to be competent in providing quality memory care, the conversation turned to a discussion about compliance versus education for competent staff. OftenContinue reading “Staff Education and Training – More than Compliance”

Long-Term Care Workforce Issues: Practice Principles for Quality Dementia Care

I was honored to lead the development of the best practice recommendations for creating a person-centered dementia capable long-term care workforce for the new 2018 Dementia Care Practice Recommendations. The National Alzheimer’s Association 2018 Dementia Care Practice Recommendations outline recommendations for quality care practices based on a comprehensive review of current evidence, best practice andContinue reading “Long-Term Care Workforce Issues: Practice Principles for Quality Dementia Care”

Free Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Conference June 7th!

I am looking forward to presenting at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Concepts in Care Conference on Wednesday, June 7th in Franklin, Tennessee.  The conference will be held at The Franklin Theater. In celebration of its 15th anniversary, Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is hosting the “AFA National Educating America Tour.”  AFA’s Concepts in Care Educational Conferences willContinue reading “Free Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Conference June 7th!”

Alzheimer’s Disease: Caregiver Shares Regrets To Benefit Others

When I see an interesting title for an article posted on the Alzheimer’s Reading Room or the Huffington Post, I always look further and all too often it is written by Dr. Marie Marley. One such title and article is by Dr. Marley, where she shares with us things she learned as a caregiver ofContinue reading “Alzheimer’s Disease: Caregiver Shares Regrets To Benefit Others”

Medications, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: Consider Comfort and Quality of Life

Families and healthcare professionals question medication use for people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a dementia, especially due to the media coverage about the overutilization and potential dangers of antipsychotics and other medications. It is important to investigate potential causes of symptoms or behaviors and identify what can be done before resorting to medication.  SometimesContinue reading “Medications, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: Consider Comfort and Quality of Life”

Alzheimer’s and Joy – No Surprise to Me

The title of a recent column caught my eye and perhaps yours as well.  The column was entitled, “Alzheimer’s and joy, an unlikely couple.”  I was a bit surprised by the author’s perspective, but perhaps I shouldn’t have been.  Many people believe only what is written about people with dementia, which is often the negativeContinue reading “Alzheimer’s and Joy – No Surprise to Me”

Easing the Hustle and Bustle of the Holidays for Our Aging Population

The holidays are a time of year when we strive to create happy memories. We take joy in organizing events for family and friends, socializing, exchanging gifts, and enjoying the company of those we love.  Yet as our relatives age we may need to adjust our plans and expectations by taking into consideration the changesContinue reading “Easing the Hustle and Bustle of the Holidays for Our Aging Population”

Helping Staff Cope During The Holidays

In a perfect world, we would all approach December with great anticipation, thinking of that Norman Rockwell Christmas gathering, the opening of beautiful gifts surrounded by a loving family, all followed by a picture-perfect holiday dinner. No doubt, we all strive to provide a meaningful and memorable holiday season for ourselves and our families. OurContinue reading “Helping Staff Cope During The Holidays”

Elders and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

We have all been touched by a bit of the winter blues at one time or another.  The early sunset makes most of us want to put on our pajamas and settle in by the fire or the television much earlier than usual!  However, while it isn’t unusual to suffer some minor episodes of theContinue reading “Elders and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)”

Customer Service Transforms After A CEO’s Personal Experience

A recent article* about a hospital CEO elevates him to hero status, and his willingness to share his experience deserves attention. The point is he was willing to share a very personal experience about the customer service during his mother’s hospital stay, and how it transformed his own hospital. Upon spending time with his motherContinue reading “Customer Service Transforms After A CEO’s Personal Experience”