In the first chapter of this course, Dr. Carrie Ciro defines dementia and introduces differential diagnoses for the participant to consider when diagnosing dementia. She demonstrates the use of the Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE), the most widespread scale used to screen for and classify severity of dementia.

In this chapter, the participant will learn to differentiate common types of dementia by trajectory of disease and imaging that can help delineate type. Dr. Ciro also reviews the different medications used in the treatment of dementia.

Dr. Ciro defines neuroplasticity and discusses how neuroplasticity is facilitated in non-dementia populations. The participant will consider examples of emerging evidence for neuroplasticity in dementia.

This chapter contrasts the differences between skills needed for new learning (declarative memory) and retraining previously performed tasks (procedural memory). Dr. Ciro compares and contrasts methods and evidence for task-oriented training and cognitive training (computer games, crossword puzzles). The participant will also learn appropriate timing for intervention for rehabilitation.

In the first chapter of this course, Dr. Carrie Ciro identifies how environmental press may underlie negative and positive behavior in people with dementia. She discusses how rehabilitation therapists can address triggers to negative behaviors in people with dementia.

Dr. Ciro describes the application of the Sensory Processing Theory to people with dementia. Participants will learn to differentiate the four categories of sensory processing and apply them to specific behaviors in dementia.

In this chapter, Dr. Ciro describes the relationship between negative behavior and loss of ability to perform meaningful activities. Participants will consider how to gather goals for meaningful activities and review features of rehab training that are successful in improving performance in meaningful activity.

Participants will learn the concept of Tailored Activity Programs and the outcomes of using them with people with dementia. Dr. Ciro guides the participant in the development of a Tailored Activity Program for a case example informed by Sensory Processing Theory.

In this chapter, Dr. Ciro defines the concept of a Snoezelen room in a facility or home-based environment. Participants will study the evidence for reducing negative behavior or increasing positive behavior. Dr Ciro provides best practice guidelines for a case example informed by Sensory Processing Theory.

Dr. Ciro defines alternative therapies to reduce agitation or negative behavior, such as aromatherapy, music therapy and massage. Participants will compare and contrast the evidence for each therapy. Participants will consider best practice guidelines for a case informed by Sensory Processing Theory.

This chapter highlights simple and system-based environmental modifications that may decrease negative behaviors and increase positive moods. Dr. Ciro provides best practice guidelines for use of these modifications informed by Sensory Processing Theory where applicable.

In the first chapter of this course, participants will learn to identify the importance and strength of using procedural memory to enhance ADLs. Dr. Carrie Ciro describes clinical patterns that fit a model describing how loved ones may unknowingly advance ADL/IADL disability. She outlines the errors typically seen in ADLs/IADLs for each level of severity.

Participants will learn to describe the differences and review the pros and cons for observation-based vs. self- or proxy-reported ADL/IADL assessments. She highlights observational assessments that provide the best information for treatment planning.

Dr. Carrie Ciro explains the importance of choosing meaningful ADL/IADL goals for improving participation and learning capacity in therapy. Participants will be introduced to the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure as an assessment to identify relevant goals.

This chapter discusses the importance of task-oriented training, tools and environments. Participants will learn how to develop a sequence of “practice-able” steps to deliver task-oriented training that may include assistive technology.

After learning about and reviewing evidence for errorless learning, participants will learn to differentiate between blocked and random practice, schedule for praise, and dosage for success in people with dementia.

This chapter synthesizes and sequences concepts of meaningful activity, task-oriented training, and motor learning in the treatment of ADL/IADL disability.

This segment of the course will highlight dementia caregiver perspectives on rehabilitation training, and introduce simple strategies to enhance success with translating your therapeutic interventions over to a different provider or caregiver.

Chapter one will introduce the importance and need for meaningful exercise and mobility activities for patients with dementia. Participants will learn how to deliver the Physical Performance Test in order to examine movement during activities. Dr. Carrie Ciro discusses how to make exercise meaningful for dementia patients based on individual necessity and personal goals.

This chapter will address gait changes associated with aging, as well as the additional impact of known gait changes that stem from dementia. With this information, participants will be able to develop a treatment plan using evidence-based interventions in order to improve the lifestyle of those affected by dementia.

In order to improve mobility, a thorough assessment of pain must be conducted before treatment. This chapter provides participants with the knowledge to apply guidelines for examining dementia-related pain in order to determine the best interventions to improve mobility. Emphasis is placed on utilizing a pain scale for dementia patients that have trouble with verbal communication, as well as on classifying the differences in pain perception and response between people afflicted with and without dementia.

This chapter will explore how dementia affects brain systems and impacts mobility skills, a consequence that contributes to, and increases the risk of falls. Participants will be able to understand variables that contribute to fall risk, and have the opportunity to investigate evidence-based programs that are designed to improve gait and reduce fall risk.

In the first chapter of this course, Dr. Carrie Ciro introduces assistive technology and its application to older adults. She demonstrates how to recognize low vision diagnoses and impact on function. Participants will review select examples of low and high-tech devices that can be incorporated into treatment sessions.

Dr. Carrie Ciro classifies low and high-tech assistive technology that can support activities of daily living for people with dementia. Participants will learn to differentiate appropriate equipment recommendations based on patient strengths and impairments.

This chapter describes the differences between stationary aids and mobile memory aids, as well as the pros and cons for each. Participants will learn to identify appropriate adaptations for priority goals such as scheduling and finding lost items.

The final chapter of this course names barriers to using assistive technology and provides suggestions for overcoming barriers to assistive technology. Participants will learn to employ training strategies for teaching people with dementia how to incorporate assistive technology into daily activities.