The Dementia and Challenging Behaviors Series of six web-based, interactive story modules were developed specifically to further train nurse aides on how to work with cognitively impaired residents and respond to potentially challenging situations. After using this series, nurse aides will be better prepared to provide care for residents with dementia and successfully deal with challenging behaviors when they do occur. In addition, the resident-centered approach of the modules reinforces the idea that nurse aides must think of each resident as a unique person with individual needs and preferences, leading to improved quality of care. Modules in this series include:

In each module, learners participate in real-world stories, making decisions about care and receiving feedback. In some stories, learners observe and critique the care provided by another, and provide justifications for their critiques. In other stories, learners make decisions about what care to provide and how to provide it, and see the consequences of their selected actions. Each story begins with background reading about the principles to be applied in the story, and ends with a summary that reflects on the main teaching points. In addition, supplemental resources and simulated experts provide additional hints, coaching, and information during each story. Every module ends with a self-assessment that allows learners to determine how well they have learned the material and what points they may need to review.

Access to this module series is available for use in training, both within facilities and in community colleges or other educational settings. To try a sample module, click the link below.

Sample Module

Inquire About Access

If you are interested in using the Dementia and Challenging Behaviors Series in your facility, please email geriatric-education@uiowa.edu with a date/time to discuss this series and answer any questions you may have.

The Dementia and Challenging Behaviors Series modules were developed with a Learning Anytime Anywhere Partnership (LAAP) grant from the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE), U.S. Department of Education.