National Dementia Capable Care Training: A Model Implementation and Evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Developmental Disabilities
• Neurology

Background:

• Growing need for specialized dementia care training for direct caregivers of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
• The National Task Group on Developmental Disabilities and Dementia Practices (NTG) developed a comprehensive Dementia Capable Care Training (DCCT).
• Challenges with training length and cost limited the dissemination of the original NTG-DCCT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a shorter, more accessible version of the NTG-DCCT.
• To assess the effectiveness of the abbreviated training in improving caregiver knowledge and confidence.
• To extend the reach of dementia-capable care training.

Main Methods:

• The Sonoran Center adapted the NTG-DCCT into a shorter version, maintaining core components.
• The training was implemented in seven U.S. Southwest cities, with 368 participants.
• Pre- and post-training evaluations were conducted with 260 participants.

Main Results:

• The short version of the DCCT significantly improved participants' knowledge and/or confidence in dementia-capable care.
• The evaluation demonstrated the effectiveness of the adapted training program.
• Follow-up interviews provided qualitative insights into participant experiences.

Conclusions:

• The shortened Dementia Capable Care Training is an effective and accessible method for enhancing caregiver preparedness.
• This abbreviated training model facilitates broader dissemination of essential dementia care skills for IDD populations.
• The study supports the adoption of this evidence-informed training to improve care for individuals with IDD and dementia.