This program has been developed to assist long term care providers with the increasingly complex task of managing communication, behavioral, and regulatory issues surrounding the care of residents with dementia. Successful collaboration between activities, nursing and the entire interdisciplinary team is critical for successful implementation of person-centered dementia care. Even though we can never truly understand what it would be like to experience the nursing home environment from the
perspective of a resident with dementia, as professionals we can step back and reflect on the environment in which we work, and where our residents with dementia live. Examination of the environment and facility policies help staff recognize barriers that restrict quality care practices.

Learning Objectives:

1) Recognize physical, psychological and environmental stressors that can contribute to challenging behaviors.
2) Discuss the major components of communication and strategies to enhance meaningful communication with persons with dementia.
3) Discuss the revised guidelines for F248 Activities, related Ftags, and their impact on dementia programming.
4) Explore practical interdisciplinary approaches, and facilitywide practices which can yield positive psychosocial outcomes.