April 4, 2019

Two RIA products have been included in a province-wide resource for people who work with older adults who live with dementia, mental health, substance use and/or other neurological conditions.

Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO) recently released the Behavioural Education and Training Supports Inventory (BETSI) 2.0 which includes LIVING the Dementia Journey (LDJ) as a featured program and Excellence in Residence Centred Care (ERCC) as an additional resource.

LDJ is an award-winning, evidence-informed training program for those who support people living with dementia. The program was created in collaboration with people living with dementia and their care partners, and provides a fresh perspective on dementia care and support based on real life experiences. LDJ emphasizes the importance of shifting care and services to focus on a person’s strengths and abilities, and how each person can be supported in living life to the fullest.

ERCC courses build practical skills using a person-centred approach. The courses are designed for personal support workers and other team members in seniors care. ERCC covers a number of key topics including palliative care, safety and mobility, continence, infection prevention and control, oral care, nutrition and hydration, and pain and comfort.

The BETSI tool is used by organizations in Ontario that are looking for resources to support their staff who work with older adults living with dementia.

Programs included were vetted by a working group who also asked for input from stakeholders as they compiled this second edition.