The Hcinteractive Program Cares Basics, also known as the CARES® Dementia 5-Step Method™ Online Training Program, is specifically designed to equip caregivers with fundamental knowledge and skills in dementia care. This program emphasizes a person-centered approach, providing essential insights into the cognitive changes associated with dementia progression and their subsequent impact on behavior. Crucially, it teaches caregivers to interpret behavior as a form of communication. A dedicated module delves into the CARES® Approach, a straightforward, person-centered strategy applicable across diverse situations and dementia stages.
The acronym CARES® represents five core steps: Connect with the Person, Assess Behavior, Respond Appropriately, Evaluate What Works, and Share with Others. This program uses engaging video, audio, and interactive exercises featuring genuine families, caregivers, and dementia experts – not actors – to explore these steps and related topics.
The program is structured into four comprehensive modules, totaling approximately 4 hours of training:
- Meet Clara Jones: Introduces a case study to ground the learning in real-life scenarios.
- Introduction to Dementia: Provides foundational knowledge about dementia, its types, and progression.
- Understanding Behavior as Communication: Teaches caregivers to decode and understand the underlying needs communicated through behavior.
- The CARES® Approach: Details the practical application of the 5-step CARES® method in daily care.
Validate Your Dementia Care Expertise with CARES® Dementia Certification™
The optional CARES® Dementia Certification™ is included with the CARES® Dementia 5-Step Method program, offering a formal recognition of acquired knowledge. This certification assesses understanding based on the Alzheimer’s Association Dementia Care Practice Recommendations and research associated with CARES training programs. Organizations that utilize CARES certification can enhance their reputation and demonstrate a commitment to quality dementia care. Successful completion of the certification exam validates a user’s education and training in person-centered dementia care practices utilizing the CARES® Approach. Further details about CARES Dementia Certification are available online.
CARES® was developed in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association, incorporating input from a national team of experts. The program content aligns with evidence-based strategies from the Alzheimer’s Association Dementia Care Practice Recommendations, endorsed by over 30 leading health and senior care organizations. A summary of academic research and national awards pertaining to CARES® online training programs is available for review.
Additional Benefits of the HCInteractive Program CARES Basics
Beyond the core training, the CARES® Dementia 5-Step Method™ provides several added advantages:
- Free CARES Dementia 5-Step Method worksheets: Worksheets are available for each module to reinforce learning and facilitate practical application.
- Free continuing education self-submit packets: Supports professional development for staff members by simplifying continuing education requirements.
- Cost-saving purchasing options: Offers economical solutions for single sites and flexible purchasing for organizations with multiple locations.
Streamlined Administration with CARES® Administrative Portal
Site license purchases include access to the CARES Administrative Portal, a valuable tool for efficient program management:
- Manage training compliance: Track and ensure staff completion of required training modules.
- Evaluate individual progress: Monitor the learning progress of each staff member.
- Run customized reports: Generate reports for specific timeframes to analyze training data.
- Download detailed documentation: Access comprehensive records including employee details, module status, and completion dates.
- Print completion certificates: Facilitate recognition of training completion for group sessions.
