Online Class: Alzheimer's Disease 101

Gain essential knowledge about Alzheimer's by learning to identify its symptoms, stages, and impact on both patients and caregivers while distinguishing it from normal aging. The course also emphasizes home adaptation, caregiving challenges, and future legal and financial planning to prepare for and maintain quality of life.
Self-Paced, Online Class
Library Subscription
 
  • 11
    Lessons
  • 27
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 7
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.7
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Welcome to this introductory course on Alzheimer's disease.  As one of the most feared and misunderstood types of dementia affecting the elderly today, understanding Alzheimer's and how it affects the brain is important not only for every individual, but for those diagnosed with the disease, and their caregivers. In this course, students will learn about some of the risk factors and perceived causes of Alzheimer's disease.  Students will learn the most common warning signs of Alzheimer's and differentiating between Alzheimer's symptoms and normal aging processes.

By the end of this course, students will also understand how Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed and classified or staged, with differing symptoms affecting the lifestyle, environment and challenges placed on caregivers. Home safety and the security of loved ones is of primary importance for someone with Alzheimer's disease, and this course covers the basics of how you can adapt the home to create a safe environment for a loved one. Future considerations regarding care, legal and financial planning are also introduced in this course, as are tips and suggestions on dealing with certain behaviors common to Alzheimer's disease including anxiety, confusion and aggression.

No course on Alzheimer's would be complete without addressing caregivers.  Caregiving is an extremely rewarding experience, but may also precipitate a number of challenges and stress. Taking care of the caregivers, and different approaches and expectations of care based on culture will be discussed.

Knowing what to expect during the latter stages of the Alzheimer's disease process and suggestions of things to remember when providing care for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer's will round out this course.  We hope this course will alleviate some of the fear and uncertainty regarding Alzheimer's and provide guidance, understanding and suggestions for compassionate approaches to caregiving and support that you can offer to loved ones or friends diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

 
 
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Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.7 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(2,069 votes)

Lesson 1. Alzheimer's Disease: Breaking Down the Myths and Realities

Debunking common myths, Alzheimer's is indeed terminal and can manifest in younger adults, challenging misconceptions about aging and disease. Educating communities fosters empathy and understanding of the nuanced differences between normal aging and neurodegenerative disorders. 31 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-HomeWork-13302.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: Motives for Taking this Course
  • Assessment: Lesson 1: What Is Alzheimer's Disease?
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Decoding Alzheimer's and Aging

Alzheimer’s disease introduces significant cognitive and behavioral shifts, like losing track of time or unusual placement of items, beyond what normal aging entails. Recognizing these changes, alongside understanding risk influencers and current research insights, empowers families and caregivers to provide knowledgeable and empathetic care. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-WordSearch-13304.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 2 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 2: Is it Alzheimer's or Something Else?
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. The Seven Stages of Alzheimer's: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Progression

The progression of Alzheimer's through seven stages from no symptoms to severe cognitive decline highlights the importance of recognizing subtle changes early to plan care effectively. Families facing this journey can find solace in focused strategies, like creating structured routines and maintaining open communication, to enhance the quality of life for loved ones. 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-WorkSheet-13305.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 3: Stages of Alzheimer's
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Alzheimer's Home Adaptations

Securing living environments from ingestion hazards and electrical dangers through childproofing principles ensures a safe space, addressing the unique challenges posed by Alzheimer's. Proactively adapting home spaces—both indoor and outdoor—helps maintain safety and minimizes risk. 18 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-4-WorkSheet-13307.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 4: Home Safety
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Navigating Alzheimer's: Strategies for Maintaining Independence

Alzheimer’s invites a necessary reevaluation of future plans, emphasizing legal, medical, and financial preparations for peace of mind. By establishing living arrangements and support networks, patients can focus on living purposefully and forging connections. 23 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-WordSearch-13309.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 5 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 5: What If I Have Alzheimer's?
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Comprehensive Planning for Peace of Mind in Alzheimer's Journey

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's requires early legal and financial planning to secure autonomy and peace of mind. By establishing critical documents like a living will and power of attorney, you ensure healthcare and asset management decisions reflect your wishes, easing the burden on loved ones. 31 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-WorkSheet-13311.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 6: Legal and Financial Planning
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. The Art of Compassionate Care in Alzheimer's

Caregivers face significant challenges when dealing with Alzheimer's patients' difficult behaviors, yet non-verbal communication and empathy serve as powerful tools to maintain peace and emotional well-being. Adjusting communication styles and maintaining environmental safety can support both caregivers and patients. 11 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-HomeWork-13313.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 7 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: Dealing With Behaviors

Lesson 8. Strategies for Effective Caregiving: Balancing Stress and Empathy

Anger and resentment may arise from the caregiving journey, often due to perceived lack of support from family. Recognizing and expressing these emotions through healthy outlets like therapy or creative pursuits can foster emotional relief and resilience. 31 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-WordSearch-13314.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 8: Caregiver Stress
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Cultural Nuances in Healthcare

Culture-centered care demands systemic changes within healthcare settings, such as creating culturally sensitive environments and empowering patients with autonomy over personal choices. By fostering community-like spaces and personalized engagements, care facilities enhance residents' sense of belonging and social well-being. 9 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-9-WorkSheet-13317.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 9: Culture Centered Care

Lesson 10. Late-Stage Alzheimer's: Prioritizing Comfort and Dignity

Caregivers for late-stage Alzheimer's patients face challenges such as bedsores, incontinence, and loss of mobility, requiring compassionate, informed daily care routines. Recognizing and responding to nonverbal cues of discomfort ensures the patient's physical and emotional well-being. 8 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-10-Activity-13318.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 10: Late Stage Care

Lesson 11. Guiding Compassion: Understanding Alzheimer's in Caregiving

Meaningfully reintroducing oneself during interactions with Alzheimer's patients emphasizes love and safety, alleviating disorientation. Allowing adequate time for daily tasks reinforces comfort and participation, transforming routines into cherished rituals. 78 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-11-Activity-13319.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments; Course Comments
  • Assessment: Lesson 11: 10 Things to Remember
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam
299
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Demonstrate effective strategies for caregivers to enhance quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease.
  • Identify and describe the key protein structures involved in Alzheimer's disease and their impact on neuronal communication.
  • Demonstrate the ability to differentiate between normal age-related memory changes and Alzheimer's disease symptoms by identifying three specific signs unique to Alzheimer's.
  • Describe three lifestyle changes that can potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer's, including dietary, physical, and social factors.
  • Define the seven stages of Alzheimer's disease by identifying key symptoms and cognitive changes associated with each stage.
  • Describe strategies to support individuals with Alzheimer's in maintaining quality of life, such as promoting a safe environment and using communication techniques.
  • Identify and describe adjustments necessary for maintaining dignity and independence in people with Alzheimer's, while ensuring a safe living environment.
  • Recognize and implement key safety measures in home environments to support individuals with Alzheimer's, including secure installations and adaptive strategies to mitigate risk.
  • Define Alzheimer's disease and describe its impact on individuals and families by the end of the lesson.
  • Identify and demonstrate memory management techniques for maintaining independence in daily tasks by the end of the session.
  • Define and explain the significance of key legal documents such as living will, living trust, and power of attorney in the context of Alzheimer's planning.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify and select appropriate legal and financial professionals to assist with Alzheimer's-related planning and decision-making.
  • Describe strategies for identifying and managing triggers of aggressive behavior in Alzheimer's patients, such as observing patterns and adjusting the environment.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Alzheimer's Disease 101
Course Number: 8900163
Lessons Rating: 4.7 / 5 Stars (2,069 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is available online in all U.S. states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. It’s also offered in English-speaking countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Last Updated: March 2024
CEU Value: 0.7 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus

Student Testimonials

  • "I really enjoyed this class, as a person who dealt with someone who had Alzheimer's I wished I would've known about this before. This class showed me how to deal with different stages of Alzheimer's and what is normal. Also taught me that being frustrated is totally normal and it is ok to ask for help." -- Maria B.
  • "Instructor very helpful excellent feedback, course very enjoyable." -- Stephanie I.
  • "Excellent experience for me and I've shared with several coworkers." -- Brandy H.
  • "Course is very educational for me...instructor is kind and collaborative." -- Albino R.
  • "Excellent instructor and enjoy her classes." -- Alisa K.
  • "Everything about this course was very helpful. THanks...." -- Michelle P.
  • "I loved this course and think it was a well planned and thought out course!!! Very Intelligent instructor!! THANKS!" -- Joan D.
  • "Instructor was excellent to the point I am taking another of her classes" -- Melody B.
  • "Everything was helpful...I am a caregiver to my mom who has Alzheimer's." -- Joan E.
  • "This was an excellent course, the instructor was extremely knowledgeable, I would recommend this course for anyone working in this field or taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer's." -- Sharon M.

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