BECOMING DEMENTIA CAPABLE: AN INNOVATIVE EDUCATIONAL STRATEGY FOR EMS PROVIDERS
2024
Training EMS Providers in Dementia Care
Sample size: 275
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Davis Kimberly, Jensen Christy, Waters Leland
Primary Institution: Virginia Commonwealth University
Hypothesis
There is a need for EMS providers to receive training in the care of older adults living with dementia.
Conclusion
Training EMS providers in dementia care can lead to improved practices and better support for older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- EMS providers are uniquely positioned to recognize and intervene in the care of older adults with dementia.
- Focus groups revealed that EMS providers receive little formal training in best practices for dementia care.
- The training aligns with the goals of the Dementia State Plan 2020-2024 in Virginia.
Takeaway
This study shows that teaching EMS workers about dementia can help them take better care of older people who have it.
Methodology
The project involved training EMS providers in dementia care through a two-pronged approach focusing on patient and caregiver perspectives and advance care planning.
Participant Demographics
275 EMS providers, first responders, and hidden responders from 7 regions of Virginia.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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