Online program helps dementia caregivers discuss death

Minneapolis-based HealthCare Interactive has launched a new online training program to help professional caregivers deal with end-of-life decisions that accompany dementia.

The CARES End-of-Life Dementia Care online Training Program provides five hours of training and includes tools and strategies to help caregivers provide comfort care and support people who are in late-stage dementia, as well as their friends and family members. It includes video, audio and interactive exercises featuring real families and real caregivers.

Completion of the training program helps qualify caregivers for the Alzheimer's Association essentiALZ Plus End-of-Life Dementia Care certification.

"End-of life care is often an uncomfortable area for many professional caregivers," said John V. Hobday, CEO and Founder of HealthCare Interactive, in a press statement. "Care becomes even more challenging when a person has Alzheimer's disease or dementia and is unable to make their needs, desires, and final wishes known. CARES End-of-Life training teaches professionals person-centered tools and strategies for providing care with increased confidence. It will enhance the way end-of-life care is delivered in many organizations around the country."