This program offering is specifically geared towards informal and formal care partners, but anyone is welcome to participate.

The University of Pittsburgh’s Pittsburgh Regional Dementia Caregiver Training and Employment Program was awarded a grant through the Henry L. Hillman Foundation as a part of its Healthy Aging Challenge.

The University of Pittsburgh’s primary team and core advisors leading this caregiver initiative consist of experienced clinicians and dementia care experts in Pitt’s Division of Geriatric Medicine, Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, and Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. UPMC Senior Services is a partner in this program to provide this training to family caregivers, professionals, and intergenerational champions.

Experts include:
• David Nace, MD, MPH
• Oscar Lopez, MD, FAAN
• Ellen Whyte, MD

This program will consist of elements from the Positive Approach to Care® education program as well as curriculum developed from UPMC Senior Services. These trainings allow caregivers and champions to learn practical skills to better communicate and engage with people living with dementia and gain knowledge about the cognitive and behavioral changes that arise. Activities include role-playing, presentations, exercises, and group interactions.

This is a three module program that meets once a week for three consecutive weeks.