Elder abuse is a growing and under-reported problem. Direct Service Workers are in a position to identify, report, and prevent elder abuse. In this 45-minute module, you will learn how to:

• Recognize signs and symptoms of elder abuse
  
• Recognize factors that place elders and caregivers at increased risk
  
• Report signs of abuse and prevent elder abuse from occurring.
  

Challenging Behaviors (1 hour)

In this course, designed for all types of direct service workers, we will discuss a range of challenging behaviors you are likely to encounter in your work.  We will review strategies for reducing and managing these challenging behaviors and explore ways you can become more aware of your own behavior and how it impacts the people you support.

Introduction to Substance Abuse (2 hours)

• Facts about drugs and the effects of drug abuse
• Signs of abuse and addiction
• Approaches to prevention, treatment, and recovery

Dementia Basics  (4 hours)

• Basic information needed for dementia care
• Impact of changes to thinking skills
• Communication expressed through behavior