The Power of Residual Memory: Therapeutic Approaches to Dementia

• •Describe physical and behavioral characteristics found in the Global Deterioration Scale stage 4, 5, 6 and 7


• •Determine patients functional ability at each stage of dementia


• •Predict when a resident will begin having difficulty with falls, bowel and bladder incontinence, eating and self–care skills


• •Discuss techniques to stage residents by physical characteristics and provide compensatory strategies to maintain function


• •Identify new alternatives to problem behaviors and better understand cause of frequent behavior problems


• •Examine provided samples of documentation and determine factors needed for 3rd party reimbursement


• •Evaluate how to expand therapy through functional activities vs. exercises

Families, caregivers and long–term care professionals underestimate the abilities of individuals in mid–stage and late–stage dementia. Many feel the ability to remain continent, dress and feed themselves and engage in leisure and recreational skills is no longer possible.

Meaningful activity is important to the quality of life of every person. Dementia residents are no exception. Inappropriate activities have a negative effect on the quality of life. Attempting to involve dementia residents in activities they are not capable of doing is stressful for both the resident and the staff member. It is important to provide activities that bring success for the dementia patient. This course will provide a practical approach to dementia with practical examples of how to maintain these skills, deal with problem behaviors and challenge these individuals to live a full life?one filled with joy.