Evaluating the impact of a community education program on dementia and intellectual/
developmental disabilities: Adapted NTG curriculum in Arizona

The authors presented the results of a study in Arizona and found that "the NTG Curriculum, especially with tangible screening tool and dementia capable care educational materials, empower family members and providers to advocate for health care needs with health care professionals... particularly, providers are eager for more information and practical tools whereas many family members are hesitant to be directly involved." Key findings: (1) Health care advocacy is crucial for individuals with ID to ensure they receive equitable care and to support quality living within their community throughout their lifespan; (2) Clinician, Health Care Provider and Aging Agency’s trainings are necessary to improve partnership for Dementia/ID/Aging health care advocacy; (3) The NTG education curriculum, especially with tangible screening tool and Dementia Capable Care educational materials, empower family members and providers to advocate for health care needs with health care professionals; (4) Particularly, providers are eager for more information and practical tools whereas many family members are hesitant to be directly involved ; (5) Culturally sensitive educational materials are needed (e.g., Native American and Spanish-speaking communities)
Source: Yumi Shirai, Melissa Kushner, and Lynne Tomasa. Sonoran Center for Excellence in Disabilities at the University of Arizona (Tucson).