For SLPs and OTs, this course serves as the formal training requisite for the implementation of the What’s Next?™ treatment protocol.  What’s Next?™ is a structured, measurable and evidence-based program to teach individuals with dementia and other cognitive disorders to maximize independence and decrease reliance on caregivers to perform the vital functional skills required for independent living....more+

This course features a case review of a man with dementia living in a long-term care facility. He is not communicative, sits in a wheelchair, has some swallowing difficulties, and is unable to feed himself. There are DNR, DNI, and DNH orders in his medical record. His family has asked that a Heimlich maneuver not be performed if he were to choke. This presentation will explore the role of the SLP as an integral member of the ethics team....more+

This course focuses on MCI assessment.  Topics presented will include the value of early identification, evidence-based in-depth guidelines for assessment, information about types of assessments — both screening measures and broad based neuropsychological batteries, the factors to consider in interpreting test performance, and counseling clients given their test performance....more+

This course explores the multisystem breakdown of the swallow as well as the broadening role of the SLP in dysphagia therapy. The five systems of dysphagia (cognitive - neurological - respiratory - gastrointestinal - muscular) are discussed with explanation of how disorders in these systems can have a devastating effect...more+

Language performance deficits are early indicators of MCI, and SLPs are uniquely qualified to identify those at risk for MCI and provide clinical intervention. Early identification is vital to delay or prevent progression to dementia, and diagnostic criteria and test performance cutoffs are now available. This course focuses on cognitive impairment and provides an overview of what cognition is, how memory is formed, types of memory, and a substantive segment on treatments and how they relate to the principles of neuroplasticity....more+

Are our current rehabilitative approaches encouraging patients to re-automatize skills? Or, are we encouraging patients to "think about" rather than subconsciously process skills that were once procedural memories? In this course, learn to apply Procedural Learning and Dual Task Training to help individuals become skilled and automatized again to reduce or eliminate the need for constant monitoring to maintain communication and swallowing goals....more+

This course will cover disorders of cognition commonly associated with right hemisphere strokes in adults, including attention, executive function, awareness, and memory. Characteristics, assessment, and treatment of each will be discussed....more+

This course describes dysphagia management at End of Life and how this differs from SLP management of dysphagia in other populations. It will contrast palliative care vs. hospice, and demonstrate a plan to enhance early advocacy about end of life. Demonstrated will be how to facilitate conversation between the end of life patient with communication disorders and care providers/partners. ...more+

This treatment-focused course presents perspectives on the evolution of dysphagia practice. Twelve master clinicians in the field of speech-language pathology team up to discuss the history of dysphagia management, how evidence-based practice has evolved over the years, and what best practice looks like today. Course includes 2 hours related to ethics and speech-language pathology practice....more+

This course advocates for a holistic approach to dementia care and challenges SLPs to enhance their methods of providing person-centered care for individuals who are living with dementia in any setting. Learn to shift perspective of dementia care from one of disability and loss, to one that focuses on enhancement of life engagement. Also presented will be a range of treatment options and case studies....more+

This how-to online course is packed with guidance and inspiration that will help Speech-Language Pathologists and Occupational Therapists discover the abilities of individuals with dementia. It provides ideas for developing functional activities to use during therapy or as part of a maintenance program with individuals with dementia....more+

This comprehensive assessment course is presented by 5 leading experts in the field of speech-language pathology. Discussed will be dysphagia screenings, bedside evaluations, FEES, MBS study, MRI, EMG, cranial nerve, manometry and others. Participants will learn advantages, strengths and limitations associated with various assessment methods and how to apply this knowledge clinically for more accurate diagnosis....more+

This course is designed for Speech-Language Pathologists working in Skilled Nursing Facilities. Strategies to support communication with facility leaders and other team members will be provided, along with solutions to facilitate buy-in when training other staff. ...more+

This clinically focused course uses a case study format to explain how to successfully evaluate and treat persons with dementia. Participants will learn the importance of categorizing the type of dementia before establishing a plan of treatment, and how to document medical necessity and skilled services – the two requirements necessary for reimbursement. Reviews evidence-based interventions that are likely to yield functional and meaningful outcomes for persons with dementia....more+

This course describes how medications can affect neurotransmission in the central nervous system and impacts on cognition, learning, behavior, and motor function. Guidance is provided for identifying possible effects of medications on the rehab session and optimizing patient participation through appropriate scheduling of sessions in relation to medication administration....more+

This online course offers positive, solution-focused practices that SLPs can implement with nursing staff, home health aides, spouses, children, or other care partners to help them support those living with dementia. Advocates for five strategies that SLPs can use to coach care partners in order to provide quality, loving care, as part of a healthy relationship....more+

Learn to address environmental barriers such as inadequate lighting, noisy conditions, poor or absent environmental cues, and visual clutter as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to assist older adults and individuals with dementia with their ability to function independently during meals....more+

This course combines knowledge of feeding tubes in dementia with informed consent and decision making. Discussed are the requirements for informed consent, and how knowledge of ethical principles and research evidence can support clinicians and families in making better decisions....more+

This comprehensive presentation will discuss the impact of illness and deconditioning on swallowing, review evidence-based interventions, and provide a clear framework to guide the practitioner, team, and family with decision-making that is appropriate and realistic, but more importantly, patient-focused....more+

This course provides a framework for implementing successful interventions for patients with dementia. Learn the SLP's role in staging and assisting patients to achieve their highest level of function in the areas of communication, behavior management, socialization, swallowing, and mobility. Documentation for dementia therapy is also covered. ...more+

This course was developed to help rehabilitation professionals individualize their approach for each patient, with focused consideration on the patient's abilities and barriers. The approaches presented will be supported by research and will focus on improving functional independence in communication, mobility, and ADLs....more+

This course will identify the roles and responsibilities of the SLP related to memory loss and compare and contrast some of the diseases that cause symptoms of dementia and memory loss. It provides a comprehensive review of formal assessment tools and treatment planning options appropriate for persons with memory loss associated with dementia....more+