Communication

The University of Kansas is seeking nursing homes to participate in an NIH-funded study testing an online version of the evidence-based Changing Talk (CHAT) communication training program. The CHAT program uses a person-centered approach to educate direct-care staff on better communication strategies with residents with dementia, which can reduce resistiveness to care and behavioral symptoms. This free online training can qualify for CMS dementia care training hour requirements.

The University of Kansas School of Nursing is seeking nursing homes to participate in an NIH-funded research study testing a new online version of the evidence-based Changing Talk (CHAT) communication training program. CHAT educates staff about reducing elderspeak (infantilizing communication) and results in reduced behavioral symptoms and need for psychotropic medication for residents with dementia. The new online version (Changing Talk: Online Training (CHATO)) consists of 3, one-hour interactive online modules that provide flexible and accessible access for staff.

Providing telephone reassurance and check-in calls is one key strategy that is being widely used across the country. Programs are engaging volunteers and pulling in staff to meet the need for an increase in such check-in calls. Recognizing that certain conversation skills can help to build trust and deepen engagement, ADvancing States partnered with Emergency Design Collective to create a Conversation Tips Toolkit designed to support reassurance and check-in programs.