ALZHEIMER'S AND DEMENTIA CARE EDUCATION WEEK

ALZHEIMER'S AND DEMENTIA CARE EDUCATION WEEK

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Education Week is February 14-21. Each year the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners promotes the week to focus on fostering sensitivity and respect for people diagnosed with dementia. During the week, front-line staff learns communication techniques and new approaches for helping patients with activities of daily living.

One of the goals of the week is to help coordinate and promote advancements in the treatment of Alzheimer's and Dementia. While the increase in the number of dementia cases is a cause for concern, the outlook continues to improve as more methods for treating and improving the quality of life for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients.

HOW TO OBSERVE #AlzheimersDementiaCareEducationWeek

Organizations across the country provide educational support for staff members and family during this week. Some of the ways to participate include:

• Learning the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's.

• Learning to recognize early onset of Alzheimer's symptoms.

• Engaging in memory care activities such as:Learn a new language, or how to play a musical instrument Play board games Work on Crossword or number puzzles

Use #AlzheimersDementiaCareEducationWeek to share on social media.

ALZHEIMER'S AND DEMENTIA CARE EDUCATION WEEK HISTORY

Since at least 2007, the observance has brought national and international awareness to the importance of providing comprehensive dementia education. One of the goals of the week is to make face-to-face interactive classroom opportunities available for all healthcare professionals and line staff. Ultimately, organizers hope to go above and beyond the minimum state requirements regarding dementia education.