Antipsychotics Worsen Behavior in Dementia 
A study of 500,000 Canadian nursing home residents found antipsychotic medications significantly worsened behaviors in patients, with nearly 68% experiencing increased issues. Antipsychotics are often prescribed “off-label” for dementia-related symptoms, despite serious side effects like tremors and cognitive decline.
Researchers advocate for person-centered care, emphasizing non-drug therapies like music, art, and exercise to address behavioral issues. Training staff to reduce reliance on antipsychotics could improve resident outcomes, fostering less agitation and a better quality of life. The findings call for a reevaluation of antipsychotic use in non-psychotic conditions.
Multi-sensory inputs such as sound and touch are effective natural
alternatives to pharma intervention with those living with dementia.
Key Facts:
1. Behavioral Decline: 68% of residents on antipsychotics showed worsened behavior.
2. Off-Label Use: 26% of nursing home residents received antipsychotics for unapproved purposes.
3. Non-Drug Therapies: Alternatives like music, exercise, and pain management improve outcomes without medication.
NOTE: Learn clear communication with someone living with dementia and there is no need for antipsychotic medicines - https://lnkd.in/gTQNVyVW
Source: https://lnkd.in/g8Em5gXc
#antipsychotics #non-drugtherapies #naturaldementiacare
Elder Law and Dementia: A Vital Intersecti
Based on an ICA interview with Elder Law Attorney Patrick Cawley
Elder law is a specialized area of legal practice designed to address the unique needs of older adults. It combines estate planning, long-term care planning, and advocacy to ensure individuals maintain control over their health, finances, and well-being as they age. For families facing a dementia diagnosis, elder law becomes a critical tool in navigating the uncertainties of the future.
Patrick Cawley, a seasoned elder law attorney, highlights that proactive planning is essential. "The earlier families consult an elder law attorney, the better," he says. "It’s not just about protecting assets; it’s about maintaining dignity and autonomy, even in the face of a progressive condition like dementia."
The Importance of Planning Ahead
A dementia diagnosis often comes with a host of financial, medical, and legal challenges. Without proper planning, families may be left scrambling to make decisions during a crisis. Cawley emphasizes that elder law is not just for older adults. "Anyone can benefit from a sound plan," he explains. "You don’t have to wait until you’re in your 70s or 80s to think about these things."
One of the biggest misconceptions is that families can rely on default systems like guardianship courts or Medicaid to step in when needed. However, Cawley warns that these systems often lack the personalization and flexibility families need. Guardianship courts can be intrusive and costly, and Medicaid has strict financial eligibility rules, including a five-year look-back period to assess asset transfers. Without a proactive plan, families may find themselves forced to spend down assets to qualify for assistance. This can make a dementia diagnosis financially devastating.
Key Legal Tools in Elder Law
Elder law offers a range of tools to help families prepare for the future. These include:
• Durable Power of Attorney (POA): A POA allows any individual to appoint someone they trust to manage financial and legal affairs if they become incapacitated. Without this document, families may have to petition the court for guardianship, a process that can be both time-consuming and emotionally taxing.
• Advance Healthcare Directives: These documents, including living wills and healthcare proxies, ensure that an individual’s medical wishes are respected if they cannot communicate their preferences.
• Trusts: A revocable living trust can help families avoid probate and maintain control over their assets. Special needs trusts are also available to provide for a loved one’s care without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits.
• Long-Term Care Planning: Elder law attorneys can help families explore options for funding long-term care, including private savings, long-term care insurance, and Medicaid planning.
Cawley explains that these tools are not one-size-fits-all. "Every family is different," he says. "An effective plan takes into account the individual’s financial situation, health needs, and personal wishes."
Post-Diagnosis Planning
While early planning is ideal, it’s never too late to seek the help of an elder law attorney. Even after a dementia diagnosis, there are steps families can take to protect assets and ensure quality care. Cawley advises families to act quickly.
"Time is of the essence," he says. "The sooner we start, the more options we have."
For example, Medicaid crisis planning can help families preserve some assets while securing benefits to cover long-term care costs. Elder law attorneys can also assist in navigating the complexities of guardianship court if necessary.
Financial Ramifications
The financial burden of dementia care can be overwhelming. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the average cost of care for an individual with dementia can exceed $300,000 over their lifetime. Without proper planning, these costs can quickly deplete a family’s savings.
Cawley emphasizes the importance of understanding Medicaid’s look-back rules, which penalize individuals for transferring assets within five years of applying for benefits. "We can help families structure their finances to meet Medicaid requirements while preserving as much wealth as possible," he explains.
The Human Side of Elder Law
Elder law is not just about legal documents and financial planning; it’s about helping families navigate some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Cawley shares a story of a client whose mother had been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s. By working together, they were able to create a plan that ensured her mother received the care she needed while preserving the family home for future generations.
"These are the moments that make this work so rewarding," Cawley says. "It’s about giving families peace of mind and helping them focus on what really matters—spending time with their loved ones."
Act Now to Avoid Problems Later
Cawley’s overarching message is clear: proactive planning saves time, money, and emotional stress. By working with an elder law attorney to build a comprehensive plan, families can navigate the uncertainties of aging and dementia with confidence. As he puts it, "The longer the period we have to plan, the more opportunities we have to protect assets and maintain control over the future."
For more insights on dementia care and legal planning, listen to the full episode of The Brain & Beyond podcast featuring Patrick Cawley.
#elderlaw #financialplanning #guardianship #competency
Unlocking Memories: How Dementia-Friendly Music Uniquely Supports Dementia Care
Based on an ICA interview with Alexis Baker, MT-BC, CDP
Entrepreneur Alexis Baker innovates on-demand, virtual access to dementia-friendly music programming for memory care residents.
Recent studies reveal that music can have profound effects on individuals living with dementia, particularly when used in a structured and intentional way. Music can unlock memories, improve moods, and create meaningful social connections that might otherwise remain inaccessible. Alexis Baker, a board-certified music therapist and certified dementia practitioner, has dedicated her career to pioneering such structured, “dementia-friendly” music programs, showing how they can transform lives in memory care settings.
“Music acts as a bridge,” says Baker. “It connects through song, helping unlock memories that seemed lost. But that’s just the beginning. The list of benefits cascades into many other areas, from reducing anxiety to fostering better social engagement.”
Baker’s work focuses on moving beyond casual sing-alongs or random playlists by designing therapeutic music sessions that intentionally improve cognitive, social, and emotional well-being. Her approach has been proven to ease psychological ailments like anxiety and isolation while reducing the need for pharmacological solutions. This not only benefits residents but also helps families and communities by lowering costs and avoiding the side effects of mood-altering medications.
Music with Alexis brings dementia-friendly music directly into memory care communities, 24/7, and customized to fit the specific preferences of residents.
Tailoring Music for Memory Care
Despite its effectiveness, implementing dementia-friendly music can be challenging for many Activity Directors in memory care communities. They often face limited budgets, diverse resident needs, and the difficulty of finding engaging programs that don’t require their own musical expertise.
Baker’s program, Music with Alexis, offers a practical solution. It provides on-demand, virtual music sessions that Activity Directors can integrate seamlessly into their schedules. These sessions are designed to be easy to use, requiring no prior musical knowledge. “We’ve created a program that gives Activity Directors access to various musical genres,” Baker explains. “It’s flexible enough that they can press play and step away if needed. I lead the session as though I’m there in person, providing an engaging experience, rooted in the principals of music therapy.”
Her program has already garnered praise. “Alexis is a great storyteller and singer,” says Viri Ramirez, Activity Coordinator at Ivy at San Ramon. “Her smile brightens up the residents, and they immediately become engaged. Sometimes we use instruments to deepen the interaction.”
Adapting Through the Pandemic
The idea for on-demand, dementia-friendly music took root during the COVID-19 pandemic when senior living communities were forced to limit outside visitors. With in-person sessions no longer an option, Baker turned to virtual programming to maintain the critical engagement her therapy provided.
Baker’s husband, Tom, brought professional video production expertise to the table, helping Bridgetown Music Therapy create high-quality, virtual sessions. These on-demand programs ensured that residents continued to receive the cognitive and emotional benefits of therapeutically-informed music, even during periods of isolation.
This pivot not only addressed an immediate need but also laid the foundation for a scalable, affordable service model. “We realized we could reach more communities while maintaining a high level of desired impact,” says Baker.
A Therapy-Inspired Approach to Music
Music with Alexis offers a variety of sessions, each crafted with the needs of dementia care residents in mind. From intentional pacing to targeted prompts, every element of the program is designed to enhance engagement and connection. The sessions also feature a diverse range of music genres and themes to accommodate varied preferences.
These enhanced music experiences go beyond mere entertainment. They are designed to reduce anxiety, encourage reminiscence, and foster social interaction. “Our goal is to create an environment where music not only entertains but also uplifts and heals,” Baker says.
By offering ad-free, uninterrupted sessions, Music with Alexis builds trust and rapport between residents and the facilitator. The cost is affordable, too—less than a dollar per day—making it accessible to many senior living communities.
Simplifying Access Through Technology
The success of Music with Alexis is also due to its seamless integration of internet technology. The program offers 24/7 access to a vast library of therapeutic music sessions via a subscription-based service. This flexibility allows Activity Directors to select and implement sessions quickly, without worrying about technical difficulties or complex setups.
“Our platform is user-friendly, so even those without musical expertise can confidently provide high-quality, therapeutic experiences,” Baker explains. The ease of use ensures that residents receive the full benefits of the program, while Activity Directors are freed from the stress of pre-planning or managing complex activities.
Opportunities to Learn More
For senior living providers interested in bringing Music with Alexis to their communities, Baker offers free, 30-minute consultations. These sessions provide an opportunity to explore how the program can be tailored to meet specific needs, including integration into existing schedules and addressing resident preferences.
“Our mission is to make dementia-friendly music easily accessible to as many memory care communities as possible,” says Baker. “We want to bring moments of joy and connection to individuals living with dementia, no matter where they are.”
More information is available at www.BridgetownMT.com. Interested communities can also schedule a free consultation by emailing info@BridgetownMT.com or calling (503) 974-6729.
Currently, the company is offering a free first month of service. To start using the program immediately, visitors can enroll as members at https://www.bridgetownmt.com/musicwithalexis.
To view the full ICA podcast with Alexis Baker, simply press the play button on the video below.
#dementiamusic #musictherapy #musicfordementiacare
Dr. Jennifer Stelter on Sensory Stimulation: A Path to Better Dementia Care with Less Reliance on Medication
Based on an ICA interview of Dr. Jennifer Stelter, Psy.D., CDP, CADDCT, DCS, DCSCT
In a compelling discussion on the ICA podcast, The Brain & Beyond, Dr. Jennifer Stelter, founder of the Dementia Connections Institute, shared groundbreaking insights into the role of sensory stimulation and social prescribing in transforming dementia care. Speaking with Dr. Ethelle Lord and Bill Pemberton, Dr. Stelter emphasized that sensory stimulation, through tools like aromatherapy and other engagement strategies, can bridge the communication gap created by declining cognition in individuals living with dementia.
Her approach advocates for a shift from medication-first practices to non-pharmaceutical tools that promote meaningful engagement, improve quality of life, and foster deeper caregiver-patient connections. For example, Dr. Stelter explained how the simple use of citrus essential oils could naturally boost appetite, mood, and energy without resorting to traditional appetite-stimulating medications like Remeron. This method not only offers a safer alternative but also empowers caregivers at every level—from nurses and CNAs to dietary staff and even family members—to participate in the care process.
Dr. Stelter also underscored the challenges the industry faces in adopting these practices, particularly financial barriers and limited insurance reimbursement for such tools. She called for reallocation of resources and increased advocacy to help organizations and families afford these evidence-based interventions. She cited examples from countries like Canada, where physicians prescribe park visits or pet therapy, as a model for the U.S. to follow.
Dr. Stelter's vision aligns seamlessly with the mission of the International Caregivers Association (ICA), as highlighted by Dr. Lord, who expressed gratitude for Dr. Stelter’s contributions to the movement toward engagement-based care. Together, they champion a shift from the traditional medical approach to one that prioritizes social connection and person-centered strategies.
The conversation concluded with a shared optimism about the future of dementia care, with Dr. Stelter reiterating the importance of taking small, actionable steps toward this cultural change. Her message is clear: sensory stimulation and social prescribing can pave the way for more compassionate, effective care—benefiting not only those living with dementia but also the caregivers and professionals who support them.
To learn more about Dr. Stelter’s work and the resources offered by the Dementia Connections Institute, visit their website.
View the full ICA interview video podcast with Dr. Stelter via the viewer below.
#aromatherapy #sensorytherapy #Dr.Stelter
The Biggest Development in Dementia Care Might Be Hidden
in the Smallest of Places: Mitochondria
Based on an ICA interview with Dr. Hazel Szeto, M.D., Ph.D
The International Caregivers Association (ICA) recently sat down (via Zoom) with Dr. Hazel Szeto, a trailblazing scientist whose research into mitochondria—the tiny organelles in every human cell responsible for energy production—could revolutionize dementia care. Dr. Szeto’s work holds out new hope for preserving cognitive function by targeting the root cause of cellular dysfunction, offering a pathway to potentially slow, or even reverse, the effects of neurodegenerative diseases.
Dr. Szeto, a professor of pharmacology at Weill Cornell Medical College and a graduate of Cornell University’s Medical Scientist Training Program, made her groundbreaking discovery while studying opioid receptors in the brain. What began as a single, curious result has blossomed into a promising new field of research, one with the potential to change the way we treat conditions as diverse as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and dementia. At the heart of her work is a relentless focus on mitochondria, whose damage has been linked to aging and the onset of chronic diseases.
Mitochondria: The Powerhouses—and Protectors—of Brain Health
Mitochondria produce energy in the form of ATP, powering every cell in the human body. But as we age, mitochondrial function declines, creating a cascade of effects that impair cell metabolism and communication. This damage leads to oxidative stress, which can trigger cell death, disrupt neurotransmitter production, and ultimately contribute to diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Dr. Szeto’s research focuses on reversing these processes. By stabilizing mitochondrial function, her work seeks to protect cells from oxidative stress and enable the body to continue producing essential neurotransmitters like serotonin, GABA, and glycine. These inhibitory neurotransmitters are vital for maintaining cognitive balance, reducing anxiety, and preserving focus. Without them, the brain struggles to process information effectively, leading to cognitive decline.
The Role of Szeto-Schiller Peptides
In her quest to improve mitochondrial function, Dr. Szeto developed a groundbreaking class of compounds called Szeto-Schiller peptides. These peptides selectively target a phospholipid on the inner mitochondrial membrane called cardiolipin, compacting the cristae structure within the mitochondria. This leads to faster electron transport, increased ATP production, and improved cellular energy.
These peptides have been licensed by Cornell to Stealth Biotherapeutics, which has conducted clinical trials to explore their effectiveness. While the company has pivoted to focus on primary genetic diseases, Dr. Szeto’s peptides remain a significant breakthrough in age-related chronic disease research.
What sets these peptides apart is their ability to enhance energy production at the cellular level. However, ATP production also depends on the supply of macronutrients to mitochondria, which feed the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA). This is where Dr. Szeto’s new supplement, ReZilient (RZ), enters the story.
ReZilient: Supporting the Brain Through Nutrition
ReZilient is a supplement designed to support mitochondrial health by boosting the TCA cycle. It contains acetyl-carnitine, which helps transport fatty acids into mitochondria, and alpha-ketoglutarate, which bolsters the cycle’s enzymatic reactions. These ingredients work in concert with B vitamins to enhance mitochondrial fitness and support the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters critical to brain function.
But that’s not all. ReZilient also includes tryptophan, glycine, glutamine, serine, and betaine, precursors to key inhibitory neurotransmitters. These compounds cannot be supplemented directly, as they do not cross the blood-brain barrier, but by enhancing their biosynthesis within mitochondria, ReZilient addresses one of the root causes of neurotransmitter imbalance.
The result? Improved energy production in the brain, better cognitive function, and a stronger ability to stave off the sensory overload, anxiety, and agitation often associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
A Future Full of Promise
After leaving Cornell, Dr. Szeto continued her research with support from the Social Profit Network. Her team developed a new generation of peptides, even more effective than the Szeto-Schiller peptides, some of which could eventually be incorporated into ReZilient. Unlike her earlier work, these supplements do not require FDA approval, making them an accessible first step in the journey to better brain health.
Dr. Szeto’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, persistence, and scientific innovation. By targeting the cellular mechanisms at the root of aging and disease, her work offers hope not just for those living with dementia but for anyone seeking to maintain a healthy, functioning brain as they age.
Join the ICA to Stay at the Forefront of Dementia Care
Dr. Szeto’s work is just one of many exciting advancements featured by the ICA. When you become a member, you’ll gain access to a wealth of resources, including our e-newsletter, expert industry content, and significant discounts on dementia care products and educational materials. The ICA offers Rezilient for sale on our website.
#mitchondriaandmemory #Dr.HazelSzeto #neurotransmitters
The Carousel Adult Day Care Center Partners with ICA to
Implement Groundbreaking TDI Model in Dementia Care
Kansas City, MO – The International Caregivers Association (ICA) has announced an exciting new partnership with The Carousel Adult Day Care Center to implement the revolutionary Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI) Model. The program, set to launch on January 1, 2025, marks a pivotal step forward in transforming dementia care at The Carousel, fully licensing Dr. Karen Allen, Founder and Executive Director, to integrate the TDI Model’s comprehensive systems approach into the organization’s daily operations. Dr. Allen is shown at left.“We are delighted to begin this new TDI Model support program for The Carousel Adult Day Care Center,” said ICA General Manager Bill Pemberton. “Dr. Allen is a very visionary leader and is committed to a vision of excellence and growth. Our TDI Model is an ideal choice for her in pursuing that vision.”
Transforming Care with the TDI Model
The TDI Model is the first and only systems-based approach to dementia care, designed to elevate both the quality of care and operational efficiency. It introduces a dedicated Dementia Coach role, reduces CNA shifts from eight to six hours while maintaining full pay, and integrates families as part of the care team.
By addressing key areas—people, programs, processes, and profitability—the TDI Model delivers transformational benefits:- Decreased administrator workload
- Near-zero staff turnover
- Reduced resident incidents
- Significant cost savings on recruitment and training
This groundbreaking approach provides a quantum leap in effectiveness and cost efficiency, ensuring a better work-life balance for staff and creating an empowered, engaged care environment.
A Visionary Partnership for Excellence in Care
Founded and led by Dr. Karen Allen, The Carousel Adult Day Care Center is a leader in providing adult and elder care for individuals with a wide range of physical, developmental, and cognitive disabilities. Located in Kansas City, MO, the center also specializes in serving veterans and individuals with traumatic brain injuries, serious medical conditions, and memory loss.
The Carousel operates under a medical model adult day care program licensed by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Its mission is to enhance the well-being of adults through comprehensive care that attends to their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social needs while fostering a safe, respectful, and compassionate environment.
“The Carousel is deeply committed to maximizing independence for adults and preventing premature institutionalization,” said Dr. Allen. “By integrating the TDI Model into our programs, we are taking a major step toward ensuring that our participants and their families receive the most innovative and effective care available.”
The Future of Dementia Care at The Carousel
As the program launches in January 2025, The Carousel will gain access to ICA’s full suite of TDI Model resources and training. This includes the tools necessary to implement a fully licensed systems approach to dementia care, designed not only to improve care outcomes but also to drive measurable organizational growth and success.
The inclusion of the TDI Model aligns seamlessly with The Carousel’s commitment to personalized care plans, which are tailored to the unique needs of each participant. Whether supporting individuals with Down Syndrome, Autism, Alzheimer’s disease, or other types of dementia, The Carousel’s team will benefit from the model’s advanced framework to provide exceptional care.
ICA’s Commitment to Innovation
This partnership exemplifies the ICA’s dedication to driving innovation in dementia care. By licensing the TDI Model to The Carousel, ICA continues its mission of equipping care organizations with cutting-edge tools to meet the challenges of caregiving in the 21st century.
The ICA’s TDI Model represents a bold new vision for dementia care, combining compassionate service with operational excellence. As the partnership with The Carousel begins, it sets a powerful precedent for how care organizations can adopt a holistic, systems-based approach to achieve exceptional results.
About the International Caregivers Association (ICA)
The ICA is a global leader in advancing dementia care standards, offering training, resources, and support for caregivers and organizations. Through its proprietary TDI Model, the ICA empowers care providers to deliver exceptional outcomes for individuals with dementia and their families.
For more information on the TDI Model and how it can transform dementia care, please visit the ICA website.
Persons wished to know more about The Carousel Adult Day Care Center can visit their website here.
#thebrainandbeyond #icapodcast #dementiacarepodcast
The Doctor Is In: Consulting with Dr. Ethelle Lord, DM
For over four decades, Dr. Ethelle Lord has been a trusted global leader in dementia care, training, and organizational management. Now, her wealth of expertise is available to individuals and organizations through online consulting sessions tailored to address a wide range of challenges.
Whether you're navigating the complexities of dementia care, seeking guidance in management strategies, or pursuing personal growth, Dr. Lord offers practical solutions rooted in her deep experience and evidence-based approaches.
Her specialties include:
- Dementia care consulting for families and professionals
- Nutritional and wellness guidance
- Management consulting tailored to care organizations
- Dementia Intelligence training and coaching
- Transactional Analysis training for communication and relationship
- Energy medicine and wellness assessments, including Voice Scan profiles
- Flexible and Accessible Support
Dr. Lord’s consulting services are designed to be accessible to a variety of needs. Sessions are conducted via Zoom, making it easy to connect from anywhere in the world. The initial “discovery session” is offered free of charge, providing an opportunity to explore your goals
and determine how Dr. Lord’s expertise can help.For ongoing support, her consulting rates are straightforward and flexible:
$100 per half hour
$175 per full hour
Customized pricing for specialized consulting needs is also available, with details provided after your complimentary session.
Why Seek Dr. Lord’s Expertise?
Dr. Lord’s insights are drawn from her extensive experience as a practitioner, educator, and thought leader in dementia care. She brings sterling credentials to her hybrid role as a Master Dementia Coach, gained through both rigorous academics and as a personal dementia caregiver for her husband, who survived 21 years under her dedicated care.
She authored a landmark book entitled, Alzheimers Coaching (soon to be in third edition). She has designed and authored a robust set of online courses that provide on-demand teaching and training 24/7, worldwide.
"My time spent in consultation with Dr. Lord more than paid for itself, many times over, in giving me breakthrough insights into reaching core goals."
— Ryan Stoffko, CEO, OPP Neuro SPA
"Working smarter feels better than working harder. Dr. Lord brings plenty of smarts through her consultation."
— Bill Pemberton, Principal, Stratos Communications
If you’re ready to gain clarity and direction, Dr. Lord’s consulting sessions offer a structured and insightful way forward.
Learn More and Schedule Today
Discover how Dr. Lord can help you achieve your goals in dementia care, organizational management, or personal growth. Visit her consulting page for details and to schedule your free discovery session.
#booksondementiacare #dementiacoaching #alzheimerscoaching #dementiaconsulting
ICA Launches "The Brain & Beyond" Podcast on Vimeo:
A 21st Century Journey into the Neural Universe
The International Caregivers Association (ICA) is thrilled to announce the launch of its brand-new podcast, The Brain & Beyond, available exclusively on ICA’s Vimeo platform. This engaging video podcast, hosted by ICA Founder and President Dr. Ethelle Lord and ICA General Manager Bill Pemberton, takes viewers on an extraordinary journey into the vast and complex world of the human brain.
With its first episodes now live, The Brain & Beyond aims to explore every facet of the neural universe—from high cognitive performance to the most advanced approaches in dementia care, and even the intersection of thought, personality, and the esoteric realms of soul and spirit. Each episode features deep-dive discussions with leading voices in neuroscience, dementia care, and related fields, offering insights and best practices that push the boundaries of what we know about the brain.
“I am very excited about our new podcast,” said Dr. Lord. “It provides us with a forum to bring leading voices in the dementia care field into in-depth discussions. The answers represent the latest thinking and best practices in their respective fields.”
What Makes The Brain & Beyond Special
One of the standout features of The Brain & Beyond is its home on ICA’s Vimeo Video Platform. Unlike podcasts hosted on YouTube, which are frequently interrupted by ads, Vimeo ensures a seamless, top-tier viewing experience free of distractions. The platform’s high-quality streaming capabilities make every episode visually crisp and professional, matching the caliber of the groundbreaking content delivered by Dr. Lord and Pemberton.
“Our choice to host The Brain & Beyond on Vimeo was deliberate,” said Bill Pemberton. “We wanted to provide our viewers with an uninterrupted and immersive experience. This aligns with the ICA’s commitment to excellence in everything we do, including the way we share knowledge and resources.”
A Podcast for Everyone
Whether you’re a seasoned dementia care professional, a neuroscience enthusiast, or simply someone curious about the workings of the human brain, The Brain & Beyond offers something for everyone. Episodes delve into a range of topics, including:
- The Brain in High Gear: Unlocking cognitive potential and peak mental performance
- Understanding Dementia: Exploring cutting-edge practices in memory care and the TDI Model
- The Human Psyche: Examining the interface between thought, emotion, and imagination
- The Spiritual Brain: Investigating the connection between brain, soul, and spirit
With live Zoom interviews and an ever-growing archive of recorded episodes, viewers have ample opportunities to engage with topics that resonate most deeply with their interests. Subscribers also receive exclusive invitations to participate in live discussions with podcast guests.
Join the Adventure
Dr. Lord and Pemberton invite listeners to join them on this unparalleled journey into the most personal and fascinating frontier—the human brain. With its mix of expert insights, thought-provoking discussions, and a touch of wonder, The Brain & Beyond is set to become a must-watch series for anyone eager to better understand the three-pound marvel between their ears.
To explore the podcast and subscribe for updates, visit the ICA Vimeo platform and start your journey to The Brain & Beyond today! View our Promo Video Below:
Introducing the Fundamentals of TDI Course: Your Gateway
to Transformative Dementia Care
The International Caregivers Association (ICA) is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking course, Fundamentals of Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI). Designed for dementia care providers of all kinds, this innovative program offers a unique opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the TDI Model while earning a prestigious certification.
In just under four hours of engaging, on-demand video content, participants can master the essentials of the TDI Model from anywhere in the world, at any time. Whether you’re a medical professional, occupational therapist, family caregiver, or dementia coach, this course is tailored to help you elevate your expertise and provide exceptional care for those living with dementia.
What Sets the Fundamentals of TDI Course Apart?
Led by Dr. Ethelle Lord, founding president of ICA and creator of the TDI Model, the course consists of four dynamic modules that provide a deep dive into dementia care's most essential principles and practical applications. With a focus on real-world skills and theoretical knowledge, the course prepares participants to implement the TDI Model effectively in their daily caregiving roles.Participants who successfully complete the course will earn a handsome diploma certifying them as TDI Specialists. They’ll also gain the right to add the prestigious letters CTDI (Certified in Transactional Dementia Intelligence) after their name, signifying their expertise and commitment to excellence in dementia care.
Dr. Lord highlights the program’s significance, stating, “The Fundamentals of TDI Course is the foundation of our work at ICA. It equips caregivers with the tools and confidence they need to transform lives through the TDI Model. We’ve already seen strong demand for this course, and we’re excited to make it even more accessible during the first quarter of the year.”
Limited-Time Offer: 50% Discount
To celebrate the course launch and meet the growing demand, ICA is offering the Fundamentals of TDI Course at an incredible 50% discount during Q1. This special offer makes it easier than ever for caregivers to gain certification and elevate their practice.
What You’ll Gain:
Certified Credit Hours: Earn four hours of certified credit that can boost your professional credentials.
A Frame-Worthy Diploma: Upon completion, you’ll receive a formal certificate validating your expertise in the TDI Model.
Real-World Skills: Through fieldwork assignments at the end of each module, you’ll reinforce your learning and enhance your practical caregiving abilities.
Exam Confidence: The final pass/fail exam ensures you’ve mastered the material, with the option to retake it as many times as needed.
Course Materials and Support
To enhance the learning experience, participants will benefit from two companion books: Alzheimer’s Coaching: Taking a System’s Approach to Creating an Alzheimer’s Friendly Healthcare Workforce by Dr. Lord (complimentary upon request) and TA Today by Ian Stewart and Vann Joines (available on Amazon).
Ready to embark on a transformative journey? The Fundamentals of TDI Course is your stepping stone to becoming a certified expert in dementia care and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those you serve.
Learn more and enroll today by visiting our website. Don’t miss this opportunity to join the ranks of TDI-certified caregivers and elevate the standard of dementia care worldwide.
#tdicertification #memorycarecourses #memorycarecredithours
In Q4 2024, the International Caregivers Association (ICA) proudly launched the ICA Fellow Program, an extraordinary opportunity for individuals passionate about transforming dementia care to join a global movement. More than a membership, becoming an ICA Fellow means becoming an integral part of a mission to define and implement the new gold standard in dementia care—the Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI) Model.As an ICA Fellow, you gain unparalleled access to a world of resources, research, and the latest developments in dementia care. With the ICA’s pioneering approach, Fellows join forces with like-minded individuals to disrupt outdated care models and champion a new systems-based approach that prioritizes effective, compassionate, and intelligent care.
Dr. Ethelle Lord, ICA founder and president, shares her deeply personal journey of creating the ICA over two decades ago. Her inspiration was born from her husband’s battle with vascular dementia, fueling her commitment to revolutionizing the care landscape for millions worldwide. “The work of the ICA around the globe is essential, and so is your membership,” Dr. Lord explains. “By joining us as an ICA Fellow, you’re investing in a better world for people living with dementia and their caregivers.”
Benefits of Becoming an ICA FellowWhen you join the ICA Fellow Program, you step into a leadership role within the global dementia care movement. This prestigious membership offers a wide range of exclusive benefits:
- Preferred Content & Research Access: Stay informed with free access to ICA’s extensive library of blogs, podcasts, webinars, white papers, and proprietary research. Fellows also enjoy member-only offers on select products and services.
- 10% Off All ICA Training & Certifications: Elevate your career in dementia care by earning TDI Dementia Care Specialist credentials at a discounted rate. This distinction enhances your resume and LinkedIn profile, positioning you as a leader in the field.
- Quarterly Updates and Consultations: Participate in quarterly Zoom calls led by Dr. Lord and ICA’s leadership team, where you’ll hear from top dementia care professionals about cutting-edge practices and innovations.
- Exclusive Access to the ICA Talent and Jobs Bank: Whether you’re seeking career opportunities or looking for top talent, the ICA Jobs Bank connects Fellows to the best in the industry.
Beyond these tangible benefits, ICA Fellows become active participants in defining the future of dementia care. They gain a platform to contribute their ideas and experiences while remaining at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in the field.
Join the Movement
Becoming an ICA Fellow is more than a professional step—it’s a commitment to shaping a brighter future for dementia care. Whether you’re driven by curiosity, passion, or a desire to make a difference, the ICA Fellow Program welcomes you.
Take advantage of exclusive discounts on training and certifications, priority access to resources, and the opportunity to collaborate with the brightest minds in dementia care. Now is the time to step forward and play your part in the mission to elevate care standards worldwide.
Apply today and become a leader in redefining dementia care for the next 50 years. Together, we can build a future where every individual living with memory loss receives the dignity, care, and support they deserve. You can purchase your ICA Fellow membership here.
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