Thursday, February 25, 2016

7:30 - 9:00 AM
Breakfast
9:00 - 9:15 AM
Welcome and Opening Remarks
9:15 - 10:15 AM

Opening Plenary Presentation

P01 - Creating a Dementia Capable System

Richard Elbein, CEO, Alzheimer's Association - Houston and Southeast Texas Chapter

Dementia is unlike any other disease in aging care, and providing quality memory care services affects all teams within the organization--from nursing to housekeeping, dining to security.  

This presentation will explore the demographics information, national and state policies, and the shocking statistics that are pushing memory care initiatives across the country.  Beyond this, learn what a dementia diagnosis means in our care system and our society, and the resources needed to make a community 'dementia capable'.

Learning Objectives:

  • Describe the statistics and economic impact of Alzheimer's and dementia on America
  • Define 'dementia capable'
  • List the top services that may benefit someone with Alzheimer's/dementia
  • Identify a list of professions that would benefit from workforce training in dementia care
  • Describe the key components of a dementia-friendly community, and the what dementia-friendly care may look like for a variety of communities
10:15 - 10:45 AM
The Family Focus - "Bringing the Family Into the Discussion: A Caregiver's Perspective"
*Not for CEU credit
 
Michael Gill, President and Founder, Texas Senior Living Locators
 
The Family Focus sessions are brief personal discussions with families, professionals, and advocates--focusing on care experiences, and providing real-world examples of how to connect and nurture the family relationship.
 
In this special session, sit down with our guest speaker Michael Gill, as he details his experience as a family caregiver in Texas, and how fostering meaningful relationships with the families that are challenged by a diagnosis of dementia for their loved one can make all of the difference to organizations and their reputations.
10:45 - 11:15 AM
Networking Break
11:15 AM  - 12:15 PM

Track: Administrative and Executive
E01 - Staffing for Memory Care

Dayne DuVall, LMT, CAEd, CRTS, Chief Operating Officer, National Certification Board for Alzheimer Care
Aysha Kuhlor, RN, BA, CDONA/LTC, Founder/CEO: National Council of Post Acute Care Practitioners, Vice-President, NADONA/LTC

Lynn Biot-Gordon, MSW, LNHA, CDP, CADDCT, Client Operations Officer, National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners

Moderator: Pamela Tabar, Editor-in-Chief, Long-Term Living

It takes a specialized, motivated, patient, and highly trained individual to join the staff of a quality memory care unit.  Assembling a team of star caretakers starts well beyond the basics, with executive teams and DONs specifically needing to know the latest accreditations and training programs required to provide the best person-centric care possible.

Staff must understand aspects of nutrition, pain management, social interaction, assessment, and how each of these areas changes within the memory care unit depending upon diagnosis.

What constitutes a “certified” dementia care staffer? How do you know who to hire and what training to invest in? How do execs weigh the choices between retraining current staff and hiring new staff?  Answer all of these questions in this in-depth panel discussion.

Learning Objectives:

  • Describe the top credentialing, education, and certification requirements for staffers seeking employment in a memory care unit
  • Outline the knowledge base required for memory care staff members
  • Illustrate how dementia can impact a typical care plan in areas like nutrition, social interaction, and assessment
  • Formulate viable training approaches for staffers who may encounter pushback on activities related to hygiene and pain management

Track: Clinical and DON
E02 - Measuring ADLs Amid Memory Care

Leah Klusch, RN, BSN, FACHCA,  Executive Director, The Alliance Training Center
 

This session discusses the unique issues involved in measuring and documenting the required activities of daily living for residents with memory care challenges.

Don't miss compliance and assessment expert Leah Klusch, as she defines how memory care units must take a dramatically different approach to ensure appropriate payment and care management for residents with dementia.  Break down the key concepts and components of ADL assessments, what the memory care staff must absolutely know when completing these assessments, and what to look for when monitoring performance and scoring over time.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify the key factors in assessment that need to be understood by direct care staff caring for elders in Memory Care
  • Review the components of the ADL Assessments that can indicate functional changes in elders with cognitive decline
  • Discuss the importance of frequent review of ADL performance and support provided scores so care planning and payment are accurate
12:15 - 1:30 PM
Networking Lunch
Sponsored by: PointClickCare
1:30 - 2:30 PM

Afternoon Plenary Presentation

P03 - Do You Speak Alzheimer’s? - Effective Communication Strategies in Dementia Care

Dayne DuVall, LMT, CAEd, CRTS, Chief Operating Officer, National Certification Board for Alzheimer Care

Alzheimer's disease and related disorders (ADRD) gradually diminish a person's ability to communicate. Communication with a person with Alzheimer's requires patience, understanding and good listening skills. 
 
In this session, we will discuss communication strategies to employ with residents/clients, their families, and other care providers.  Discover effective and proven methods to increase positive interactions with individuals with ADRD, improve families and care providers’ to manage stress levels and personal health, and enhance the relationship and understanding of care plans between families, care providers, individuals with ADRD, and the health care teams supporting them.
 
Learning Objectives:
 
  • Recognize that all “behavior” is a form of communication and be able to identify strategies for communicating with persons with ADRD
  • Outline the importance of non-verbal communication and identify methods of improving communication via these methods
  • Demonstrate effect strategies for communicating with families
  • Distinguish the important role that knowledge of cultural diversity plays in communicating with persons with ADRD, families and other care providers
2:30 - 3:30 PM
Plenary Session
P02 - Person Centered Care at the End of Life
 
Christopher J. Johnson, Ph.D., Clinical Professor of Sociology, Texas State University

In the declining stages of dementia, considerations and circumstances only become more unique and sensitive-- presenting a variety of challenges for staff, families, and caretakers.  This session reviews these challenges in detail, while examining processes and strategies from a variety of perspectives and viewpoints to prepare staff to navigate the most difficult of scenarios.
 
Learning Objectives:
 
  • Outline the characteristics of malignant behaviors toward persons with dementia who are dying.
  • Discuss key challenges in end of life person centered care for persons with dementia.
  • Identify key issues and challenges in a variety of new person-centered care approaches.
  • Diagram the spiritual aspects of the dying process for persons with dementia and their caregivers
3:30 - 4:00 PM
Networking Break
4:00 - 5:00 PM
Track: Administrative and Executive
E03 - Financing Memory Care Delivery
 
Christopher Honn, Senior Managing Director – Seniors Housing Group, Berkadia

The skyrocketing demands for memory care is prompting many assisted living and skilled nursing communities to change their bed censuses in order to expand memory care services. Savvy finance models for memory care can make or break organizations’ growth now and later.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • List the numerous financing sources for memory care projects in all project phases – construction loans, bridge loans, and permanent debt
  • Define the risk / reward profile – reviewing the latest trends of constructing smaller buildings by unit count  which can promote greater volatility in occupancy rates and debt service coverage – and how consistent strong occupancy promotes strong debt service coverage & Net Operating Incomes (NOIs)
  • Discuss how successful older properties with limited resident acuity units or none at all are taking the trendy approach of converting independent living units to Alzheimer’s units and in some cases assisted living units to Alzheimer’s units
  • Outline underwriting guidelines for permanent debt--learning that permanent debt lenders desire to finance only nearly or fully stabilized properties

Track: Clinical and DON
E04 - Activity Programming: Moving Beyond Games and Puzzles

Alisa Tagg, BA, ACC/EDU, AC-BC, CDP, President, National Association of Activity Professionals

Persons suffering from Dementia can benefit from participating in activity programs. Their lives become enriched due to participation and increasing their feelings of usefulness and self-worth. During this session we will recognize the importance of activity programming and review successful tips as well as sharing examples of personal experiences.

Learning Objectives:

  • Recognize the importance of activity programs for persons suffering from dementia
  • Outline new innovative programming ideas that will enhance quality of care
  • Review tips for successful activity programming
  • Demonstrate examples of personal experiences
 
5:00 - 6:00 PM
Networking Reception

Friday, February 26, 2016

7:30 - 8:30 AM
Breakfast
8:30 - 9:30 AM

Morning Plenary Presentation

P04 - How to Effectively Deploy a Non-Pharmacological Memory Care Program:  Bridging the Gap of Neuroscience and Supportive Living

Joshua J. Freitas, M.Ed,  CADDCT, CAEd. , Corporate Director of Memory Care and Resident Engagement, LCB Senior Living, LLC

This session will address how non-pharmacological interventions as well as quality associate training may be a more effective strategy for treating those with memory loss.  Attendees will explore how behavioral color therapy may create a more supportive living environment and how to deploy communication approaches that have long-term effects on the person and sustain cognitive functioning.  As part of this session, attendees will develop a better understanding of dementia, a better ability to connect with someone with memory loss through contemplative care practices and how to engage a person with memory loss in a good quality of life.

Come learn how The Dementia Concept was created through research and evidence-based practices as well as the progressive research between Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and LCB Senior Living on mindfulness and cognitive rehabilitation.

Learning Objectives:

  • Distinguish how the philosophy of color can increase resident engagement, appetite, attention, and in some cases even cognitive function.
  • Explain how resident engagement changes the body on a macular level and how research suggests that it may slow down (and in some case reverse) our aging process and even signs and symptoms of dementia. 
  • Recognize how our environment changes our brains through a term referred to as neuroplasticity. You will develop a basic understanding of Epistemology (the way we view the world) and how it affects your brain (and the brain of someone with dementia).
  • Develop a better understanding of Epigenetics and how it controls the course of dementia as well as how resident engagement changes our DNA.
  • Examine the latest programs suggested by LCB Senior Living, LLC, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital and how they improve the quality of life and sustain resident skills and abilities through a Habilitative environment

     

9:45 - 10:45 AM
Track: Administrative and Executive
E05 - Engagement by Design: Memory Care Workflows and Environments
 
Roxann Johnson, Ph.D., Owner / Founder, Aging Consultants, Inc.

Person-centric design is a term that is currently in vogue, but what does it really mean for a memory care unit?
 
The physical memory care unit can become a safe harbor for residents, making them feel at home while also providing a feeling of independence and allowing them to use the full extent of their abilities.  Creating rooms that are conscientious of a resident's identity, can impact staff interactions with the resident, family interactions with the resident, and empower a higher quality of life.
 
Join internationally acclaimed dementia care expert and TEDxGreatHillsWomen presenter Dr. Roxann Johnson, as she defines what makes an environment person-centric, and the steps required to craft the structure needed for quality care.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Outline an innovative philosophy for memory care based on a person-centric model that aims to preserve personhood and recognize the person’s remaining abilities
  • Explore essential features within the environmental design of memory care units or neighborhoods that promote safety, security and engagement for persons with high levels of cognitive needs.
  • Explain how meaningful living is designed to affirm dignity, choice and independence focusing on the `person’ to incorporate continuity throughout their life and encourage positive interactions.
  • Discuss the importance of dementia-specific training for all care providers and how this highlights the need to adapt to meet the evolving work responsibilities for memory care.

Track: Clinical and DON
E06 - Memory Screening: Testing Protocols for Detection and Monitoring

J. Wesson Ashford, M.D., Ph.D., Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University

Screening, assessment, and evaluation are at the heart of the modern memory care unit.  A number of the latest tools and methods for screening can serve as a key touch point between staff, resident, and family-- allowing for continuous improvement of case management beyond the entry of standardized ADLs.

In this session, review the latest screening protocols both pre-diagnosis and post-diagnosis that further effective care and management of those with dementia.  Learn how memory screening and monitoring can estimate ADL needs for placement and care, the scientific and clinical approach behind these tools that effectively evaluate cognitive function, and why these programs have become a staple for top care organizations nationally.

Learning Objectives:

  • Recognize the indicators of cognitive deterioration and dementia, from the earliest difficulties with forming new memories to the late loss of the oldest memories, and understand the basis and time-line of this progression
  • Appreciate the needs and cost-effectiveness considerations for cognitive impairment screening which led to the Congressional requirement for cognitive evaluation as part of the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit
  • Examine the wide range of instruments to detect cognitive impairment in older adults, including screening for memory difficulties and assessment of dementia severity
  • Outline reasons for choosing a particular cognitive screening/assessment instrument for a particular care setting, including becoming aware of very brief computerized tools for assessing memory
  • Relate cognitive impairment and level of dementia severity to corresponding losses of activities of daily living function, which will impact care planning and provision of care
10:45 - 11:15 AM
Networking Break
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Track: Administrative and Executive
E07 - Understanding the Dementia Focused Survey
 
Linda Elizaitis, R.N., RAC-CT, B.S., President, CMS Compliance Group
 
The initial success that CMS has with its 2014 focused dementia care survey pilot led to 2015’s focused survey expansion. This survey, coupled with the addition of two new Quality Measures related to antipsychotic medication use in nursing homes, show that the Agency plans to pinpoint dementia care compliance for the foreseeable future. The presenter will provide an overview of the regulatory impetus for the dementia focused surveys and discuss the keys to successful survey outcomes related to dementia care and unnecessary medications.
 
Learning Objectives:
 
  • Discuss the regulatory history that created the need for focused survey types
  • Prepare to leverage the Focused Dementia Survey Tools released in 2015 by CMS for use in facility practices and quality improvement initiatives
  • Recognize the importance of the 2013 revised guidance at F-309 Quality of Care and F-329 Unnecessary Medications related to dementia care compliance and the focused survey initiative
  • Describe the importance of non-pharmacological interventions in memory care and the potential impact on survey results
Track: Clinical and DON
E08 - The DON’s Role in Memory Care Culture Change
 
Aysha Kuhlor, RN, BA, CDONA/LTC, Founder/CEO: National Council of Post Acute Care Practitioners, Vice-President, NADONA/LTC

The Director of Nursing's (DON) influence in memory care units cannot be understated.  More and more as these units expand, the DON is being pulled in new directions to lead a culture change within organizations, and drive a better understanding of care and the unique implications surrounding dementia care.  
 
This session explores the changing role of the DON as memory care becomes a core service, the top strategies for leading meaningful and lasting change for staffs and organizations, and the best practices for the development of a top memory care program that will get organizations noticed.  
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Explain the role of the DON in implementing culture change programs in the skilled nursing facility
  • Explain how culture change can be effective from the lens of the interdisciplinary team
  • Discuss challenges with memory care program implementation
  • Discuss how to incorporate the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement program (QAPI) with memory care.
12:15 - 1:30 PM
Networking Lunch
1:30 - 2:30 PM
Track: Administrative and Executive
E09 - Marketing Memory Care Services
 
Luke Fannon, CEO, Premier Coaching & Training, Inc.
 
With Baby Boomers continuing to age, and with it the elder population’s dramatic increase in size--memory care as a field is growing at the same alarming rate.
 
With many long-term care providers launching memory care units and designing new environments for the unique needs of these residents, how will you differentiate your organization and communicate your values to your local market?
 
In this session, President of Premier Coaching and Training, Luke Fannon, outlines the primary factors that impact your organization’s brand, public perception, and reputation among an increasingly competitive landscape.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Define the key benefits of a memory care program and its impact on residents, caregivers and referral sources
  • Prepare for differentiation of memory care programs from competitors through the use of Competitive Advantage Messages.
  • Recognize which referral sources to target to increase qualified referrals to their memory care programs
  • Create a "Localized Branding Campaign" to generate qualified referrals for a memory care programs
Track: Clinical and DON
E10 - "I Hate the Shower!": Hygiene & Cognitive Challenges
 
Denise Scruggs, MA, MS, CADDCT, Director, Beard Center on Aging, Lynchburg College
 
Personal hygiene is one of the most difficult tasks for caregivers to accomplish with a resident who has dementia.
 
The act of bathing comes with a variety of unique situational challenges.  Oftentimes there can be a gap in communication, as residents with dementia can often be overt or nonverbal, which could be missed or ignored by caregivers.  Additionally, some cases could lead to verbal resistance, hostile response toward caregivers, and other interactions that place stress on both staff and the resident.
 
Learn about the factors that impact the bathing experience, alternative person-centered bathing techniques, and strategies for creating a positive experience that prevents and defuses resident resistance to bathing.  
 
Learning Objectives:
 
  • Identify alternative person-centered methods for bathing a person diagnosed with dementia.
  • Distinguish factors negatively and positively impacting the bathing experience.
  • Demonstrate techniques for setting the stage and executing a positive bathing experience that maintains dignity and promotes independence.   
  • Discover bathing strategies for preventing and defusing resident resistance to bathing. 
2:45 - 3:45 PM
Closing Plenary Presentation -
P05 - Creating A Family of Cheerleaders: Setting Expectations, Managing Relationships, and the Family Dynamic
 
Cindy Keith, RN, BS, CDP, Founder, M.I.N.D in Memory Care
 
Family isn’t just important, it can mean everything in a care plan.  From managing mood, to participating in activities, family involvement can tremendously impact quality of life for residents with dementia.  Engagement though can be difficult, as families often must learn to cope with the unique difficulties of their loved one’s condition, and can often be skeptical of interventions and care plans for their loved one.  
 
In this plenary session, popular field speaker, author, and founder of M.I.N.D in Memory Care, Cindy Keith, explores the complexities of the family dynamic for care organizations.  Join Cindy as she details the strategies and approaches to effectively engagement the family in treatment, improve communication and understanding of care approaches, and ultimately create a team of cheerleaders to support the care team’s person-centric approach— ultimately improving quality of life, and the organization’s relationship with the family.
 
Learning Objectives:
 
  • List 3 types of behaviors in client families that indicate unrealistic beliefs about the facility’s care abilities
  • Identify 5 major stress issues family members deal with daily
  • Evaluate how disgruntled family members have influenced their facility’s reputation in the past
  • Describe how to change adversarial family members into happy, engaged participants in the care of their loved one