The National Alzheimer’s Association’s updated their best practice recommendations for person-centered dementia care in 2018 and for the first time included workforce (staff) as a separate and important component/area of concentration. The workforce recommendations, released in the 2018 Dementia Care Practice Recommendations, were created to address person-centered care and mechanisms for the development of aContinue reading “Dementia Best Practice Recommendations Focus on Person-Centered Care, Regulatory Compliance and Staff Retention”
Tag Archives: memory loss
Strategies to Decrease New Hire Turnover in Long-Term Care
In a recent discussion, an Administrator asked about hiring and the rapid turnover often seen in long-term care. Some suggested it was normal, just part of the business and nothing could be done. I say not so! Selecting staff is a process that requires careful attention and a consistent plan. If you are simply fillingContinue reading “Strategies to Decrease New Hire Turnover in Long-Term Care”
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”
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”
Customer Service? Not Exactly…
While I’ve written about customer service before, a friend’s recent experience prompts me to write again. My friend, Amy, was asked to help find a facility for a relative with memory loss. This relative had been diagnosed with dementia some years ago and needed more care than could be provided at home. Amy spent countlessContinue reading “Customer Service? Not Exactly…”
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”
Stress, Negativity and Alzheimer’s – Happy New Year!
The start of a new year often brings promises that “this year” you are going to take better care of yourself, relax, eat healthy foods, and eliminate stress. All of this is good given everything we know about health habits and stress. And the results of a recent study gives us even more incentive toContinue reading “Stress, Negativity and Alzheimer’s – Happy New Year!”
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”
Dementia Care Expertise for Health Care Providers 