Introduction to Dementia

For a complete list of accreditations for this course, please see the accreditation information box below the author’s bio.  All states recognize our courses for accredited continuing nursing education, CNE, contact hours.

Every 68 seconds another American develops Alzheimer's disease. Education and training in dementia care for health care staff has been identified as a priority by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease (NPAAD) developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has set as a goal enhanced care quality and efficiency for the Alzheimer’s and dementia population. High-quality care should be provided from the point of diagnosis onward in settings including doctor’s offices, hospitals, people’s homes and nursing homes. Care quality should be measured accurately and coupled with quality improvement tools. This instructional course has been designed for nurses, activity therapists, nursing assistants and other healthcare staff who are or may be caring for patients with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Knowledge of dementia is critical for providing the specialized care that this disease requires. Therefore, education related specifically to the various dementias is critical for effective care for this population.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Define dementia and describe three stages of dementia.
2. Identify two reversible and nonreversible causes of dementia.
3. List frequently used classifications of Dementia
4. Identify three or more types of Dementia
5. List the warning signs of Dementia
6. List three categories of CJD
7. Identify three medical conditions that lead to Dementia

Curriculum

Chapter 1: Introduction to Dementia

• CMS Priority
• Group of Disorders
• Many Etiologies

Chapter 2: Defining Dementia

• Definition
• Stages of Dementia
• Epidemiology and Risk Factors

Chapter 3: Classification and Types of Dementia

• Description
• Nonreversible Dementias
• Potential Reversible Dementias

Chapter 4: Resources