Event Registration

Enhancing Dementia Care – Caring with Confidence

Hybrid Format

This conference will be offered in a hybrid format meaning you can attend in-person or virtually. Please use the registration buttons above or below to register for your preferred session.

Note: Registering for this hybrid event grants you live access only.

Program Description

This conference meets the State of Iowa’s dementia specific criteria for healthcare professionals who work in Iowa nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

 Stay abreast of the latest advancements and best practices in dementia care to ensure you are providing the highest quality of care and support to the residents you serve.  This conference offers a unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert in the field, gain insights into cutting-edge research, and discover innovative care strategies tailored to the complex needs of individuals with dementia.

In-Person Location

Iowa Health Care Association – BCG Education Center
1775 90th St.
West Des Moines, IA

Schedule

February 20, 2025

  8:00 a.m.      Registration/Check-In
  8:30 a.m.      Practical Tips for Person Centered ADL Care
  9:30 a.m.      Creating Meaningful Moments in All We Do Each Day
10:45 a.m.       Break
11:00 a.m.        I Want to Go Home: Communication Essentials in Dementia Care
12:15 p.m.        Lunch (provided)
12:45 p.m.       Culture Change in Dementia Care – Making it Happen
  2:00 p.m.      Break 
  2:15 p.m.        Best Practices and Innovation in the Dementia Care World
  3:30 p.m.      Adjourn

Topic Descriptions

Practical Tips for Person Centered ADL Dementia Care
This session provides actionable strategies for delivering person-centered assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) to individuals with dementia. Participants will explore techniques to enhance interactions, reduce resistance, and foster meaningful engagement while respecting the unique needs, preferences, and dignity of each resident.

Creating Meaningful Moments in All We Do Each Day
This inspiring session emphasizes the importance of bringing purpose and joy to daily interactions and tasks in long-term care settings. Participants will discover practical ways to foster connection, engagement, and a sense of fulfillment for residents, families, and staff. Through creative approaches and real-world examples, learn how to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences that enhance quality of life and strengthen relationships.

I Want to Go Home – Communication Essentials in Dementia Care
This session provides innovative strategies for effectively communicating with individuals living with dementia, especially during challenging moments such as expressions of wanting to “go home.” Participants will explore the emotional needs behind such statements, learn techniques to validate feelings, and discover new approaches to provide comfort and reassurance while maintaining a person-centered focus in care.

Culture Change in Dementia Care – Making it Happen
This session explores the transformative journey of moving from a traditional medical model of dementia care to a social model in long-term care settings. Learn how this culture change model has been implemented, the challenges that were faced, and the innovative strategies that were used to prioritize person-centered care. Discover the profound impact on residents, families, and staff, and gain practical insights to inspire similar changes in your organization.

Best Practices and Innovation in the Dementia Care World
This session delves into the latest concepts, cutting-edge resources, and groundbreaking innovations shaping the world of dementia care. Explore how technology and creative approaches are enhancing quality of life, improving care delivery, and supporting caregivers. Gain valuable insights and practical tools to stay at the forefront of dementia care advancements.

Continuing Education Credit

This conference meets the State of Iowa’s dementia specific criteria for 6.0 contact hours for the following disciplines:    

• CNAs/Healthcare Assistants
• Activity Professionals
• Social Services
• Physical Therapists
• Nurses (IBON Provider #166)
• Department Heads
• N. F. Administrators
• Assisted Living Managers

Registration Fees

Members:      $140 per person
Non-Members:  $420 per person

Speaker Bio

Rachelle Blough is a Certified Recreational Therapist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, and Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer with the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP). Rachelle has worked in various community, regional, corporate and national level positions in senior living including assisted living, skilled nursing, supportive living and adult day care for nearly 30 years. Holding roles in activities, memory care, and operations, she has gained practical experiences that allows her to provide practical ideas that can quickly and easily be implemented and make a difference in the lives of the seniors and the health care professional. 

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