As the global population ages, the need for qualified professionals in dementia care is rapidly increasing. A Dementia Care Certificate Program is designed to equip individuals with the specialized knowledge and skills required to provide compassionate and effective care for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. These programs are vital for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone seeking to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals affected by dementia.
Recognizing the importance of high-quality training, the Alzheimer’s Association has identified several programs that align with their Dementia Care Practice Recommendations. While recognition is not an endorsement, it signifies that these programs cover crucial topics in dementia care. For organizations using these recognized programs, there’s an opportunity to pursue essentiALZ® certification for their staff, further validating their commitment to excellence in dementia care. Individuals can also access essentiALZ certification through a bundled program.
This guide explores recognized dementia care certificate programs, highlighting key options available and what they offer to professionals seeking to specialize in this critical field.
Recognized Dementia Care Certificate Programs
The Alzheimer’s Association recognizes a variety of training programs, each with its unique approach and focus. Here are some of the recognized programs that can provide a valuable dementia care certificate:
- Alzheimer’s Association essentiALZ: As the Alzheimer’s Association’s own training and certification program, essentiALZ offers a comprehensive 3-hour training that includes the essentiALZ certification exam upon completion. This program is built directly on the expertise of a leading organization in Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
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Activated Insights (formerly Home Care Pulse) – Alzheimer’s Disease Specialist Training: This 8-hour program focuses on specialized training for Alzheimer’s disease, providing in-depth knowledge. It’s recognized until March 31, 2025, and requires separate purchase of essentiALZ exams.
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AlzBetter Foundation Training: A 4-hour foundation training, AlzBetter is recognized until March 31, 2025. Like Activated Insights, essentiALZ exams are purchased separately.
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CareAcademy™ Dementia Care Certification: CareAcademy™ offers a more extensive 10-hour dementia care certificate program, recognized until January 27, 2027. This longer duration allows for a deeper dive into dementia care principles and practices. essentiALZ exams are available separately.
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EduCare by Mirabelle Management – Dementia Series Training: A 3-hour Dementia Series Training from EduCare is recognized until December 18, 2025. essentiALZ exams are separate purchases.
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Healthcare Academy® – Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Training Program: Healthcare Academy® provides a 3-hour training program recognized until April 1, 2026, focused on Alzheimer’s and dementia care. essentiALZ exams are sold separately.
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HealthCare Interactive® – CARES® Dementia Basics™ Online Training Program: HealthCare Interactive® offers a 4-hour online program, CARES® Dementia Basics™, recognized until February 22, 2025. This online format provides flexibility for busy professionals. essentiALZ exams are purchased separately.
Learn More About HealthCare Interactive®
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Mission Care Collective – Alzheimer’s Disease Training: Mission Care Collective’s 8-hour Alzheimer’s Disease Training is recognized until April 24, 2026. essentiALZ exams need to be bought separately.
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Nevvon – Dementia Training: Nevvon offers a 3-hour Dementia Training program recognized until November 27, 2025. essentiALZ exams are separate.
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OpusVi Memory Care Orientation – Essentials of Person-Centered Care: OpusVi provides a more in-depth 20-hour program focusing on person-centered care, recognized until March 31, 2025. This longer program is ideal for those seeking comprehensive training. essentiALZ exams are purchased separately.
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Relias – Dementia Specialist Training: Relias offers a 6.5-hour Dementia Specialist Training, recognized until November 7, 2025. essentiALZ exams are separate.
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Telescope HR – Caregiver’s Guide to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Training: Telescope HR provides a 3-hour Caregiver’s Guide training, recognized until August 16, 2026. essentiALZ exams are separate.
Choosing the Right Dementia Care Certificate Program
Selecting the appropriate dementia care certificate program depends on individual needs and career goals. Factors to consider include:
- Training Hours: Programs vary in length, from brief 3-hour courses to more extensive 20-hour options. Consider the depth of knowledge required and time commitment available.
- Recognition Expiration Date: Note the recognition expiration dates, especially if seeking the most current certifications.
- essentiALZ® Certification: Decide whether essentiALZ certification is desired for staff or individual professional development. Some programs include the exam, while others require separate purchase.
- Program Focus: Some programs may focus specifically on Alzheimer’s, while others cover a broader range of dementias or specialize in person-centered care.
Enhance Your Dementia Care Expertise Today
Investing in a dementia care certificate program is a crucial step for professionals dedicated to providing excellent care. These recognized programs offer valuable, evidence-based training that can significantly enhance skills and improve the lives of individuals living with dementia and their families. Explore the options listed and take the next step in your professional development today.
For further information about the essentiALZ training program, essentiALZ certification exam, and curriculum review, please Contact Us.
