In the News

Care Dimensions Pursues New Dementia Certification to Enhance Patient Care

October 28, 2025

Responding to the growing needs of patients with dementia and their loved ones, Care Dimensions is proud to be on a pathway towards a new certification – from the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP) – which will further enhance the level of care and support provided to patients and families.

"Patients with a form of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, present unique challenges that require specialized skills and approaches," said Stephanie Patel, MD, Care Dimensions CEO. "As the population continues to age, we expect to see a dramatic increase in these patients, and we're committed to ensuring our staff has the training and expertise to provide exceptional care when patients and families need us most."

NCCDP sets global standards of excellence in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care. Through their “train-the-trainer” program, three Care Dimensions employees will become certified trainers. Those three will then educate patient-facing staff, strengthening their skills in caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia.

Care Dimensions will achieve the NCCDP Memory Care Seal of Excellence once 50% of staff are trained, with the ultimate goal of training all patient-facing staff. This recognition highlights Care Dimensions’ commitment to excellence in dementia care, building trust with patients, families, and the community. It also affirms its role as a leader in the field and reflects its dedication to integrating high-quality dementia care throughout all service lines.

"Dementia patients often experience confusion and agitation in unfamiliar situations,” said Mary Crowe, Director of Professional and Community Education at Care Dimensions, who recently received the National Memory Care Innovation Award for her leadership in educating families and healthcare professionals. “This certification teaches us how to better join patients in their current reality rather than trying to redirect them, which reduces distress and creates a more compassionate care experience.”

This certification program demonstrates philanthropic giving in action. As a non-profit organization, Care Dimensions relies on donor support and grants to enhance services beyond what insurance covers. Nancy Usher, a former Care Dimensions volunteer who died earlier this year, set aside part of her estate to support initiatives at the organization she so proudly served.

"Nancy's gift exemplifies the profound impact our donors have on patient care," said Heather Johnston, Chief Development Officer. "When supporters include Care Dimensions in their estate planning, they're investing in projects that will benefit countless families for years to come. It's a beautiful way to extend a legacy of caring."

Care Dimensions has been trusted to care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias for more than 48 years. It is now building on that experience with new initiatives like the Dementia GUIDE program and specialized staff training through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. Those efforts further strengthen its role as a leader in dementia care across the greater community.