The University of Kansas School of Nursing is seeking nursing homes nationwide to participate in a nursing home-funded research study testing a new online version of the evidence-based Changing Talk (CHAT) communication training program.
CHAT educates staff about reducing elderspeak (infantilizing communication) and results in reduced behavioral symptoms and need for psychotropic medication for residents with dementia. The new online version consists of 3 one-hour interactive online modules that provide flexible and accessible access for staff. The goal is to increase awareness of the importance of effective communication with older adults and to use evidence-based, person-centered communication during interactions with older adults in nursing homes and other health care settings.
This course is designed for staff in independent and assistive living, nursing homes and health care settings in the community that includes registered nurses, nursing assistants, nursing home dieticians, direct care professionals, other administrations and support employees.
Benefits of Participation:
- A person-centered approach
- Education about elderspeak and better communication strategies
- Reduction in resistiveness to care and other behavioral symptoms in residents with dementia
- Reduction in the need for psychotropic medication
- Convenient, online educational format for busy nursing homes
- Qualifies for CMS dementia care training hours requirements
- A free, nonpharmacological, evidence-based intervention is an excellent addition to a quality improvement plan
There is no cost, direct-care staff can earn 3 contact hours and all staff get a Certificate of Completion.
The program is approximately three hours and 15 minutes, split into three modules and includes an evaluation. Each module is approximately an hour; the evaluation take approximately 15 minutes to complete. Upon completion of all three modules, the evaluation, and 70 percent (or greater) on a post-test, a certificate of completion (three nursing contact hours) will be awarded.
If you are interested in taking the training or have questions, contact Carissa Coleman, PhD, MA, Project Director, for more information.