What services are offered by the Dementia Connection Institute?

Over 55 million people worldwide live with dementia, a number that is projected to increase significantly in the coming years. The Dementia Connection Institute provides specialized training, consultations, and clinical services to empower caregivers and professionals alike. This article explores precisely what services are offered by the Dementia Connection Institute to support those navigating dementia.

Quick Summary

The Dementia Connection Institute offers comprehensive services including certification programs for professionals and caregivers, clinical services like neuropsychological evaluations, private family therapy, and a library of educational podcasts and publications based on its innovative, non-pharmacological Dementia Connection Model.

Key Points

• Innovative Education: The Institute offers accredited certification programs for professionals and family caregivers, including the Dementia Connection Specialist (DCS) and Certified Trainer (DCSCT).

• Specialized Clinical Services: Services like in-home neuropsychological evaluations, cognitive rehabilitation, and family therapy are available.

• Customized Consultation: DCI provides expert consultation for individual caregivers and program development for senior living organizations.

• Rich Resource Library: Educational resources, including podcasts, blogs, white papers, and newsletters, are available to promote learning and connection.

• Non-Pharmacological Focus: All services are rooted in the Dementia Connection Model, emphasizing sensory-based interventions and behavioral strategies.

Comprehensive Support Based on the Dementia Connection Model

The Dementia Connection Institute (DCI) aims to transform dementia care through holistic, non-pharmacological methods developed by Dr. Jennifer Stelter. The Institute provides education and support to family caregivers, healthcare professionals, and senior living communities, focusing on connection and individual needs to enhance the quality of life for those with dementia and their caregivers.

Education and Training Programs

Education is a key component of DCI's work, offered in various formats to meet diverse learning needs.

Certification Programs

DCI offers nationally and internationally recognized certification programs. These include:

• Dementia Connection Specialist (DCS): A training program for professionals and family caregivers on evidence-based, sensory-based techniques.
• Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer (DCSCT): An advanced seminar for professionals who want to train others in the Dementia Connection Model.

Continuing Education (CE) and Presentations

Both in-person and virtual CE seminars are available for healthcare professionals. DCI also provides community presentations to increase dementia awareness.

Dementia Connection Classroom

An online platform offers accessible training and resources for professionals and caregivers, with potential discounts for certified members.

Consultation and Support Services

DCI offers personalized and organizational support. These services include:

• Private Sessions for Caregivers: Providing individualized guidance and support.
• Family Therapy Sessions: Assisting families with communication and emotional challenges.
• Neuro-Psychological Evaluations (In-Home): Offering evaluations in a familiar setting.
• Cognitive Rehabilitation Program: Therapeutic monitoring sessions to support individuals with dementia.
• Policy and Program Development: Collaborating with senior living organizations to enhance their dementia care approaches.

Clinical Services

Direct clinical interventions are tailored to individual needs.

• Neuro-Psychological Evaluations: Detailed assessments for diagnosis, planning, and monitoring cognitive changes.
• Cognitive Rehabilitation: Therapeutic sessions utilizing cognitive and behavioral strategies.
• Family Therapy: Supporting the family unit through the caregiving process.

Educational Content and Resources

DCI provides ongoing access to information through various resources.

• Podcasts and Blogs: Featuring insights and tips from caregivers and professionals.

• Publications and Newsletters: Offering blogs, white papers, and newsletters with clinical findings and innovative approaches. Dr. Jennifer Stelter has also authored books.

• Sensory Tools and Products: A shop provides sensory-based products to engage individuals with dementia.

Comparison of Caregiver vs. Professional Services

DCI offers services tailored to both family and professional caregivers.

Feature	Family Caregiver Services	Professional Caregiver Services
Certification	DCS training is available.	DCS and DCSCT programs are core offerings.
Consultation	Private and family therapy sessions provide personal guidance.	Consultation for program and policy development.
Clinical	Can utilize evaluations and cognitive rehabilitation.	Support for clinical approaches and programming in senior living.
Education	Access to seminars, podcasts, and online classroom.	Opportunity to earn CE credits.
Resources	Publications like blogs and the Busy Caregiver's Guide offer tips.	White papers and clinical findings resources are available.

Conclusion: A Holistic and Empowering Approach

The Dementia Connection Institute provides comprehensive services based on an innovative, non-pharmacological care model. Through training, certifications, clinical evaluations, and ongoing support, DCI empowers caregivers to improve the lives of those with dementia. Their focus on education and accessible resources helps transform the care landscape for individuals and their support networks. To explore their programs and resources, visit the official website at Dementia Connection Institute.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Dementia Connection Model?

The Dementia Connection Model is an innovative, non-pharmacological approach to dementia care developed by Dr. Jennifer Stelter. It focuses on connecting with individuals based on their developmental needs, rather than chronological age, using sensory-based interventions to improve quality of life.

Does the Dementia Connection Institute offer services for family caregivers?

Yes, DCI provides numerous services for family caregivers, including training for the Dementia Connection Specialist (DCS) certification, private support sessions, family therapy, and access to a wealth of educational resources through their website and publications.

What kind of training is offered for healthcare professionals?

Healthcare professionals can benefit from Continuing Education (CE) approved seminars and certification programs, including the Dementia Connection Specialist (DCS) and the Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer (DCSCT) credentials.

Are there any online courses available from the Dementia Connection Institute?

Yes, the Institute has an online platform called the Dementia Connection Classroom, which provides training and resources for both professionals and caregivers.

Can senior living facilities use DCI's services?

Yes, DCI works with senior living organizations to provide staff training, program development consultation, and expert presentations to enhance their dementia care offerings.

How can I access educational resources like podcasts and blogs?

The Dementia Connection Institute produces and publishes a variety of educational content, including podcasts and blogs, which can be found on their official website.

What clinical services are provided directly to individuals with dementia?

DCI offers clinical services such as in-home neuropsychological evaluations and cognitive rehabilitation programs to assist with diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapeutic support.