FIRST: Dementia Capability Through IDEA Behavioral Symptom Management Training

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2021

To increase dementia service capability and assist older adults who are living with dementia and their caregiver(s), the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services (AIS) has implemented new behavioral symptom management training and Agency protocols. The Administration for Community Living (ACL)-funded the FIRST project, in partnership with Alzheimer’s San Diego, (AlzSD) and provided several innovative two-day trainings to members of the community. The training called IDEA (Identify, Educate, Adapt) is an evidence informed training designed to enhance the skills of those working with clients and patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). The training covers the fundamentals of the disease, communication techniques, and a behavior management approach to working with clients. Participants receive a digital workbook filled with material, assessment templates, and informational tip sheets. As of January 2021, 335 caregivers and 145 professionals have been trained in this specialized behavioral symptom management training. This new practice is embedded into Agency procedures, with 40 County social workers completing the training.