Local Movement Offers Dementia Training to Businesses and Organizations
posted 12/4/2020 in
Press Releases
Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley has launched the Dementia Friendly Business/Organization Training Program. The training goal is to help the staff of businesses and organizations become more dementia friendly, creating a safe, informed, and respectful environment for their clients who live with dementia. In return for more than 50% of the staff (with a goal of 100%) attending the training, the business or organization receives a "We are Dementia Friendly" window decal, a certificate, and recognition on the Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley social media. The standard one-hour training is offered via Zoom and tailored towards the business or organization's specific sector. The training is being provided on a donation basis and presented by a Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley action team member.
A dementia friendly business/organization is one in which:
- Educates management and staff about dementia to better serve customers
- Recognizes signs of dementia in customers or clients
- Prepares workforce to communicate effectively with patience and understanding
- Works to develop and maintain business practices that keep people with dementia in mind.
Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging staffs and supports Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley. The movement is part of the national campaign, Dementia Friendly America. Dementia is a rising public health concern worldwide as well as in the Cedar Valley. The Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley action team is comprised of professionals, community members, and people living with dementia from across community sectors.
While there is currently no cure for most causes of dementia, some of the best steps the community can take are raising awareness for dementia and becoming educated in order to support people with dementia and their caregivers. To become part of Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley or to schedule a training for your business or organization, visit http://www.nei3a.org/our-services/dementia-friendly-communities.aspx or the Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley Facebook page. If you have questions, please call 319-287-1182.