A Web-based Training Program for Direct Care Workers in Long-term Care Communities: Providing Knowledge and Skills to Implement a Music and Memory Intervention

Journal

Gerontology & Geriatrics Education

Year

2020

Abstract

As dementia increases and the availability of at-home caregivers decreases, the need grows for effective training for direct care workers. Direct care workers have demanding schedules with restrictive availability and lack professional incentives to pursue specialized training. This study explored the impact of the Mason Music & Memory Initiative (M(3)I), a web-based, micro-learning training for direct care workers, combined with the implementation of the Music & Memory intervention. The training provided a foundational understanding of dementia and the person-centered music intervention. Twenty-five direct care workers, across two long-term care communities, completed the training modules over four weeks. All participants completed a pre- and posttest, determining their knowledge and understanding of dementia and the Music & Memory intervention adopted by their facilities. Many workers found the training to be informative and inspiring, noting improved behaviors in residents during the implementation of the M(3)I.

Music and Health Institute Terms

Alzheimer's and Related Dementias; Caregivers; Long-Term Care Facility; Music and Healing; Neurodegenerative Disorders

Indexed Terms

Computer-Assisted Instruction; Dementia; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Health Personnel; Internet; Long-Term Care; Memory; Nursing Homes; Dementia; direct care workforce training; music and memory; non-pharmacologic intervention; person-centered

Study Type

Case Study; Qualitative Methods

PubMed ID

31797750

Document Type

Article

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