Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors

Area of Science:

• Geriatrics
• Public Health
• Medical Education

Background:

• Tennessee faces a projected 45% increase in residents over 75 by 2040.
• A 29-fold increase in geriatricians is needed to meet future care demands.
• Current workforce limitations threaten timely dementia diagnosis and care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the critical need for a well-prepared dementia care workforce in Tennessee.
• To improve primary care clinicians' knowledge, skills, and confidence in dementia care through tele-mentoring.

Main Methods:

• The Tennessee Dementia ECHO program is a 12-week tele-mentoring initiative.
• Weekly one-hour sessions feature didactic presentations and case-based discussions.
• 63 participants from diverse healthcare roles engaged in the program.

Main Results:

• Participants reported an average 50% increase in confidence in dementia care.
• The program fostered a collaborative learning environment and a network of dementia care providers.
• The initiative effectively empowered healthcare professionals in dementia care.

Conclusions:

• Targeted educational interventions can bridge dementia care workforce gaps.
• The program promotes early detection, management, and improved health outcomes for individuals with dementia.
• Tennessee's initiative can serve as a model for other regions facing similar demographic and healthcare challenges.