The APA Guidelines for the Evaluation of Dementia and Age-Related Cognitive Change were revised in 2021 in light of the substantial updates to diagnostic criteria and implementation of assessment practices over the last 10 years. This program, which is Part 1 of 3, provides an overview of relevant changes in diagnostic criteria, and nomenclature and updated information about the biological underpinnings of neurodegenerative diseases. The workshop will also discuss the skills, tools, and experience psychologists need in order to competently perform assessment and intervention with older adults with suspected cognitive change or dementia. Original webinar date: October 11, 2022. CC

Learning Objectives

1. Identify key updates that were made to the Guidelines for the Evaluation of Dementia and Age-related Cognitive change in 2021. 

2. Demonstrate understanding of at least 3 key procedural guidelines relevant to the assessment of older adults with cognitive changes. 

This program, which is Part 2 of 3, provides an overview of multicultural and diversity issues in dementia assessment in older adults. The APA Guidelines for the Evaluation of Dementia and Age-Related Cognitive Change recognize racial/cultural disparities in dementia outcomes and the importance of cultural competence when assessing individuals living with dementia. We will reference Guideline 5. Psychologists are aware of cultural perspectives and of personal and societal biases and engage in nondiscriminatory practice. We will reference APA’s ethical mandate for psychologists who work with diverse populations and discuss best practices when evaluating diverse older clients with particular emphasis on Black/African American and Latinx clients. Original webinar date: November 18, 2022. CC

Learning Objectives

1. Discuss ethical and practical considerations related to multicultural and diversity aspects of dementia assessment in older adults. 

2. Incorporate and/or consider best practices when evaluating diverse older clients for dementia in their respective clinical work. 
 

This program, which is Part 3 of 3, provides an overview of the behavioral changes characteristic of dementia and other cognitive impairment, assessment of these behavioral changes, and the impact of dementia on family caregiver health and well-being. The presenter will discuss key approaches to maintaining a therapeutic alliance, evidence-based interventions, and key issues in working with other professions involved in the assessment and management of people with dementia and their family caregivers. Original webinar date: December 7, 2022. CC

Learning Objectives

1. Describe changes in mood, behavior, personality and social relationships that occur in individuals with dementia and other forms of cognitive impairment, and relevant assessment instruments.

2. Describe research findings demonstrating the effects of dementia and other cognitive impairment on family caregiver health and well-being, and appropriate measures to detect and monitor these effects. 

3. Describe key issues in communicating and working effectively with people with suspected cognitive impairment and their family caregivers and communicating and collaborating with healthcare and other professionals to enhance ongoing care.