The CARES Dementia Specialist (C.D.S.) program is a way for you to be recognized professionally for completing the entire CARES® online dementia care training curriculum (8 courses/40 modules/40 hours) and passing the C.D.S. credentialing exam.

The CARES® online training programs are 7 professional training programs and 1 family training program that encompass more than 20 years of research and training in the field of dementia care. CARES brings you the most current, effective, and applicable dementia care techniques and practices using quality person-centered care approaches guided by the Alzheimer's Association Dementia Care Practice Recommendations. These programs were developed alongside the top dementia care researchers at New York University, Emory University, and the University of Minnesota.

Video footage of dementia experts, actual caregivers, real people living with dementia (no actors), and family members from over 100 facilities across 25 different states provide a level of authenticity not found in any other online dementia training. After completing the C.D.S. credentialing program, you will be able to make observations in your own care facility, organization, or client's home about how to improve the quality of dementia care in different environments and settings.

As a professional, this credentialing program allows you to be recognized for completing the highest quality dementia care training in the country and become a dementia care leader in your workplace or community. You will become more adept at connecting with the individual, understanding different types of behavior as communication, and helping the individual through their daily life by having learned new techniques and mindsets.

After completing the C.D.S. requirements and being approved, you will be able to use the C.D.S. credential after your name, on your resume, and on a business card. You will receive a C.D.S. recognition package including an official letter of recognition and a CARES Dementia Specialist lapel pin. You will also be placed on our international registry.

Your listing on the C.D.S. International Registry will allow you to be recognized and set yourself apart from your peers. Individuals who have completed the C.D.S. program report gaining new job positions or promotions after receiving their credential.

To earn your C.D.S. credential, you need to complete the following steps:

1. Complete all 8 CARES Online Training Programs:
• CARES Dementia 5-Step Method
• CARES Dementia Safety Topics
• CARES Dementia-Related Behavior
• CARES Activities of Daily Living
• CARES End-of-Life Dementia Care
• CARES Serious Mental Illness
• CARES Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention
• CARES Dementia 5-Step Method for Families


2. Take and pass the 100-point C.D.S. credentialing exam with 90% or higher correct.
   (If you do not pass the exam, you can take it again at no additional cost.)


3. Submit your documentation for approval.

The C.D.S. program is flexible, and allows you to choose when you'd like to start a course. You will have 10 days to complete each of the CARES programs, and can take as much time as you need to complete the course in that 10 day window. Begin with CARES Dementia Basics, and then complete the other CARES courses in any order.

Once approved, your C.D.S. Credential is good for two years. Approximately six months before your expiration date, you will receive an automated e-mail encouraging you to begin the renewal process.

If you have questions, please call us at (952) 928-7722 or e-mail us at support@hcinteractive.com.