Advanced Topics in Interpersonal Practice

This course introduces students to the world of dementia care for older adults and family caregivers. Demographic data regarding increased incidence of dementia in all ethnic/racial and socioeconomic groups will frame examination of intervention research with individuals with dementia and family caregivers.

This course will include an overview of the most common causes of dementia in older adults, with a particular focus on the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Research-based interventions will be examined for early, middle, and late stage dementia, both for the individual and family caregivers. The instructor will introduce observational and assessment tools for both populations and discuss their use in practice.

Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Discuss the major causes of dementia in older adults and the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
2. Demonstrate effective ways of assessing and working with individuals with dementia.
3. Offer examples of caregiving issues at each stage of dementia.
4. Discuss knowledgeably ethical dilemmas that occur in dementia practice.