Implementation and outcomes of a dementia-friendly training program in five hospitals

Background: : Hospitalized patients living with dementia (PLWD) age 65+ generally experience poor outcomes. This study's purpose was to implement dementia-friendly training with staff, track patient outcomes, and implement sustainable system changes. Methods: : We conducted a prospective study in five hospitals. The hospitals adopted HealthCare Interactive's CARES (R) (R) Dementia 5-Step Method for Hospitals Online Training and Certification Program . After on-line modules completion, a didactic session was offered, and a retrospective pre/post survey was completed. Patient falls, length of stay, and readmission rates were collected. Results: : 1,836 (41 %) staff completed the training. Positive changes in staff ratings from pre- to post- intervention were observed. Number of falls and readmissions did not change. The average number of stays per patient decreased by .24 (p=0.01). Hospitals made system changes including innovative identification for PLWD. Conclusions: : Dementia-friendly hospital training is effective in improving staff recognition of the symptoms and needs of PLWD, and responding appropriately. (c) 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.