Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias, 3 unitsPage 2 of 13

Introduction

Image: Alzheimers Disease

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Author: Lauren Robertson, BA, MPT

Contact hours: 3
Expiration date: November 1, 2023
Course price: $29

Course Summary

This course will increase your awareness and understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. The first section defines dementia, describes how dementia affects the brain, and discusses how the symptoms of dementia differ from normal age-related changes. The second section discusses the stages of dementia along with symptoms and behaviors you might see during these stages. The last section describes communication challenges at the different stages of dementia and provides tips for communicating with people at those different stages.

The following course information applies to occupational therapy professionals:

  • Target Audience: Occupational Therapists, OTAs
  • Instructional Level: Intermediate
  • Content Focus: Category 1—Domain of OT, Client Factors
    Category 2—Occupational Therapy Process, Intervention

Criteria for Successful Completion

Study the course material, achieve a score of 80% or higher on the post test (the post test can be repeated if a learner scores less than 80%), complete the course evaluation, and pay where required. No partial credit will be awarded.

Accreditation

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Course Objectives

When you finish this course you will be able to:

  1. Relate the NIA-AA diagnostic criteria for Alzheimer’s disease.
  2. Spell out the differences between onset, cause, and duration of dementia, delirium, and depression. 
  3. Identify 3 common behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
  4. Provide a definition for physical and chemical restraint.
  5. Describe how mild, moderate, and severe dementia affects a person’s ability to complete basic activities of daily living.
  6. Relate the 3 components that should be part of individual and group activities for residents with dementia.
  7. Describe 3 ways in which stress can affect a caregiver’s quality of life.
  8. Describe 3 issues family caregivers face as their loved one transitions from mild to moderate to severe dementia.
  9. Identify 3 philosophical concepts that are important in the design of a therapeutic environment for those with dementia.
  10. Identify common ethical conflicts that may arise when caring for residents with ADRD.