RiverWoods Durham Joins the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners’ Memory Care Excellence Network, a Program Designed to Support Dementia Research and Develop Best Practices
RiverWoods Durham has been awarded the prestigious Memory Care Seal of Excellence by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP). This distinction recognizes RiverWoods’ commitment to providing exceptional dementia care and their dedication to advancing industry standards as part of the Memory Care Excellence Network (MCEN).
“We are thrilled to welcome RiverWoods Durham into the Memory Care Excellence Network,” said Patrick Smith, CEO of NCCDP. “They are now recognized as a leader in the field, setting the standard for best practices and innovative care.”
What is the Memory Care Excellence Network?
The MCEN is a selective program designed to identify and support top-tier organizations, such as Continuing Care Retirement Communities, that demonstrate the highest standards in dementia care. By joining the MCEN, senior living communities must adopt a framework to ensure dementia-capable care is delivered consistently across shifts and roles.
Additionally, the MCEN is designed to advance the field of memory care by aggregating data from member communities. This helps inform the MCEN and identify what distinguishes best-in-class memory care, using tools such as a detailed community surveys and SCIDS (Staff Competence in Dementia Care) surveys.
MCEN exists to recognize excellence, standardize and strengthen dementia care practices, and build an evidence-informed picture of what success looks like. This approach is shared with industry partners to improve quality, safety, engagement, and outcomes for people living with dementia.
Organizations that meet the criteria to join the MCEN are awarded the Memory Care Seal of Excellence, a badge showcasing their commitment to this important work.
What are the Requirements to Join the Memory Care Excellence Network?
Communities in the MCEN undergo a rigorous evaluation process, including assessments of staff training, operations, and ongoing competency in memory care. Approved organizations not only meet but exceed the expectations required to provide high-quality, person-centered dementia care.
Furthermore, in order for organizations to be eligible, 50% of the full-time caregiving team must be a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP). The CDP certification process involves completing a live, full-day Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Seminar. This seminar covers practical dementia care topics such as:
- Understanding dementia types and progression
- Communication strategies
- Common behaviors and their potential triggers
- Care strategies and interventions to prevent escalation
- Caregiver stress and burnout prevention
Linda Bresnahan, RiverWoods Durham life engagement manager, performed the training on-site. As a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer (CADDCT), Bresnahan is certified to present the comprehensive curriculum to staff.
“Teaching the classes allowed me to connect with the nursing staff and build a collaborative partnership between Nursing and Life Engagement, raising the level of our resident-centered care for those living with dementia and strengthening support for their families,” said Bresnahan.
The Impact of Certified Dementia Practitioner Training
The CDP training equips staff with the best practices in dementia care. By investing in CDP training, staff develop deeper understanding, stronger communication, and more meaningful connections.
“I learned how to better provide comfort and support for the residents and family,” said Joyce Lyons, an MNA at RiverWoods Durham.
Not only does the CDP training teach practical skills, but it also fosters teamwork and organizational culture.
“The clinical team has a new level of confidence and a shared language since the CDP trainings. The residents and families take pride in the extra work and training we have done surrounding dementia training,” said Jennifer Szatko, director of health services.
As more employees complete the training, the positive impact continues to ripple throughout the community, creating an environment where residents feel supported, understood, and truly at home.
Memory Support at RiverWoods Durham
Individuals living at Newfound Lodge at RiverWoods Durham receive person-centered memory care from specially trained professionals to support a positive sense of personhood. The innovative household model includes 12 private bedrooms and bathrooms, adjacent to a shared living room, dining room, and open kitchen.
Open and staffed 24 hours a day, residents can enjoy a midnight snack in the dining room, take a stroll through the enclosed courtyard, or visit with loved ones in the living room. This home-like environment allows each resident the freedom to rise, eat meals, enjoy recreation and activities, and retire in a way that suits them each personally.
About NCCDP
The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP) is a leader in promoting standards and education in dementia care. The NCCDP developed the Memory Care Excellence Network initiative to recognize and support exceptional long-term care organizations that uphold the highest standards in dementia care.