University of Guam School of Health recognized as a workforce leader in dementia care

The University of Guam’s Margaret Perez Hattori-Uchima School of Health was recently recognized as a Dementia Capable Care Workforce Leader by the Crisis Prevention Institute.

The DCC-WL recognition is awarded to provider organizations that directly care for individuals with dementia, as well as preparatory organizations like colleges and universities that offer CPI Dementia Capable Care training by at least one Dementia Capable Care certified instructor on staff. 

SOH achieved the recognition through its Guam/Micronesia Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement program.

Preparatory organizations must maintain these standards throughout the recognition period, which lasts for two years.

The program aims to transform the health systems serving the region’s elderly and individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias. Since 2022, it has provided CPI Dementia Capable Care training for caregivers, certified nursing assistants, and other healthcare workers and students.

Dr. Yvette Paulino, dean of the Margaret Perez Hattori-Uchima School of Health, expressed pride in the achievement and commended the work of SOH Nursing and G/M GWEP Instructor Veronica Alave and her team.

Alave, who is also a Dementia Capable Care certified instructor and instructor of Nursing at SOH, said G/M GWEP has played a significant role in highlighting the importance of dementia education in elderly care. 

“As a growing aging population is a worldwide concern and will cause a big impact to our present and future healthcare system, we need to understand the needs of our elderly and engage our younger generations in how to care for them,” Alave said.

Alave believes increased awareness and knowledge go a long way in meeting those needs, pointing to the strong family values that extend throughout the many cultures and generations living in Guam.

Alave added that through G/M GWEP “we can make a better connection with our elderly and continue to have a quality of life.”  

“G/M GWEP offering education and training on dementia care demonstrates the impact of UOG's service to the community and our commitment to developing the professional workforce,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez. “The program is testament to the School of Health’s continued efforts to improve the health and well-being of our people, especially our manåmko'.”