Understanding and Managing Challenging Behaviors in People with Dementia

Challenging behaviors in individuals with dementia are prevalent and can profoundly impact their quality of life, as well as the effectiveness of care provided by caregivers. This course aims to equip caregivers, healthcare professionals, and para-health professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the underlying causes of these behaviors and effective intervention strategies. Participants will explore the various factors that contribute to challenging behaviors, including environmental influences, communication barriers, and psychological aspects.

Through evidence-based approaches, case studies, and practical exercises, attendees will learn how to recognize specific challenging behaviors, assess their triggers, and implement appropriate management techniques. The course will also provide guidelines on when and how to intervene effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of both individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

Objectives

Upon conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:

  1. Recognize common challenging behaviors exhibited by individuals with dementia and understand their impact on care and quality of life.
  2. Explain the various factors that contribute to the development of challenging behaviors, including environmental, psychological, and communication-related influences.
  3. Utilize observational skills to identify potential triggers for challenging behaviors and understand the context in which they occur.
  4. Develop and apply effective strategies for managing challenging behaviors, including de-escalation techniques and positive reinforcement.
  5. Employ communication techniques that enhance understanding and cooperation with individuals exhibiting challenging behaviors.
  6. Identify and implement safety measures to protect individuals with dementia and caregivers during episodes of challenging behavior.
  7. Monitor and assess the effectiveness of interventions and make necessary adjustments to improve care outcomes.
  8. Recognize the importance of caregiver well-being and identify resources and support systems available to assist caregivers in managing challenging behaviors.

Curriculum

Chapter 1: Understanding Challenging Behaviors

Chapter 2: Strategies for Managing Challenging Behaviors

Chapter 3: When Caregivers Need to Intervene

Chapter 4: When a Behavior is a Problem for a Resident with Dementia

Chapter 5: Knowing the Resident Helps Caregivers Manage Challenging Behaviors

Chapter 6: The ABC Problem-Solving Approach to Reducing the Severity and Frequency of Challenging Behaviors

Chapter 7: Interventions to Address Problematic Behaviors in Individuals with Dementia

Chapter 8: Understanding Catastrophic Reactions in Individuals with Dementia

Chapter 9:Benefits of Effective Intervention Techniques for Residents with Dementia and Risk Reduction

Chapter 10: Importance of Documenting Effective Interventions in the Care Plan for Residents with Dementia

Price: $18.00

Contact Hours: 1.5

Course Author

Carey Peerman

Dr. Peerman earned her Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Concordia University Chicago (2019), a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Radford University (2001), and a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Radford University (1998). She is a Fellow in the American College of Health Care Executives, a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, and a Registered Nurse. Additionally, Dr. Peerman also holds certificates in Healthcare Administration- Long Term Care from Mary Baldwin College, Executive Leadership from The University of Notre Dame, Six Sigma Green Belt/Lean DFSS from Aventa, a certificate in Gerontology from The University of Texas-Austin and is a Certified Quality Professional. She also serves as a Healthcare Consultant and is owner of Clear Edge Consulting, LLC. She is the author of Authentic Leadership: Your Journey to a Five-Star Career and The Resilient Leader: A Foundational Guide to Developing Resilient Leadership Vol.1

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