Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation

Effectively Managing Disruptive Behaviors in Patients with Dementia

The Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation was funded to disseminate a best practice program entitled, "Effectively Managing Disruptive Behaviors in Patients with Dementia." This program sought to prepare certified nursing assistants in effectively managing disruptive behaviors in patients with dementia. The primary objectives were to expand CNAs' knowledge of dementia; augment their behavior management skills through classroom training; provide participants with the training necessary to increase job satisfaction; and, most importantly improve quality of life and/or health outcomes for nursing home residents with dementia by decreasing catastrophic reactions. The program outcomes resulted in 1) significantly better behavior management skills; 2) increased job satisfaction; 3) significantly higher levels of knowledge of dementia care; and 4) improved quality of life for residents with dementia. This program was conducted through a nursing home consortium of the following facilities: Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Morningside House Nursing Home, and Our Lady of Consolation Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Goal: Improve quality of life of residents with dementia by decreasing catastrophic reactions.