Build skills in identification, communication, care planning, and coordination. These resources support teams across primary care, specialty care, hospitals, EMS, and community organizations.
On‑Demand Modules
- Dementia-friendly communication and person-centered care
- Screening, brief assessment, and referral pathways
- Care planning, safety, and caregiver partnership
Community Service Providers and No Wrong Door Partners
DARS created these training modules to improve the dementia-capability of specific roles in Area Agencies on Aging. If you have a different role or are in another organization, please select the Options Counselors/Caregiver Support Specialist module. Each module is followed by a quiz. If you receive a passing score, you will receive a certificate via email.
- Options Counselors/Caregiver Support Specialists
- Information and Referral Specialists
- Care Transitions Coaches
Health Care Workers
The Alzheimer’s Association maintains a list of training programs for health care workers.
Long-term Care Staff
- HRSA Dementia Training for Nursing Home Staff
- CMS Hand in Hand: A Training Series for Nursing Homes You may view videos of the training here.
- VCU Deepening Your Person-Centered Dementia Care Practice: A Learning and Relearning Journey
This free series of virtual learning opportunities started in August 2025 and will continue through 2028. - Advanced Certified Nurse Aid Curriculum Toolkit
The Advanced Certified Nursing Aide (ACNA) Curriculum Toolkit is a Virginia-approved resource that provides experienced nursing aides with training to enhance their clinical expertise and leadership abilities. The toolkit outlines the coursework and requirements necessary to prepare aides for this certification. - Certified Dementia Practitioner® CDP® Certification
The Certified Dementia Practitioner® certification provides specialized training in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care. It is designed for healthcare professionals, frontline staff, clergy, and others who work with or support people living with dementia, helping them improve care, communication, and understanding of the unique challenges these individuals face. Fees apply for both the training and the certification.
First Responders
Training tailored for police, fire, EMS, behavioral crisis response, and search and rescue. Includes approaches that vary by dementia type and scenario-based practice.
- Alzheimer’s Association First Responder Training
- International Association of Chiefs of Police Alzheimer’s Initiative
Community Health Workers
Modules developed with public health partners to embed brain health and dementia capability across the lifespan.
Modules 12 (Brain Health Basics) and 13 (Working with Clients Living with Dementia) are free for Virginia residents.
Workforce Development
Helpful Resources
- Best Practices
Core elements of dementia-capable care across settings. - Referral Pathways
Practical workflows and algorithms for care navigation. - Clinical Resources
Brief screens, assessment forms, and planning templates.
This program is managed by Dementia Capable Virginia.