David Troxel and Virginia Bell, authors of The Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer's Care and The Best Friends Staff, are now offering staff of organizations in Illinois to become licensed educators in the Best Friends^TM Approach. This comprehensive curriculum will provide your organization with the tools you need to deliver a best practice program in dementia care to both professional and family caregivers.

This 12-hour training program, taught by staff of the Alzheimer's Association, is designed for participants to become Associate Trainers in the Best Friends™ Approach within their facility or community-based agency. This approach, developed by David Troxel and Virginia Bell, encompasses the familiar concept of friendship including the core elements of respect, empathy, support, compassion and humor. Associate Trainers will learn skills to resolve care issues as they occur, reducing stress on staff as well as the individuals receiving care. The Best Friends™ Approach enhances job satisfaction by encouraging person-centered care across the continuum of dementia.

Participants in this train-the-trainer program should be identified as leaders and influencers in quality dementia care. It is highly recommended that an organization send a minimum of two staff members who will, in turn, teach the curriculum within their own organization.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Twelve (12) Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for activity directors, nursing home administrators, social workers, counselors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and registered nurses through the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Family Medicine. For more information, call 847.933.2413.