Screening & Assessment
It is important to detect cognitive changes early!
Early detection and diagnosis allows:
- time for patients to plan for their own future
- access to available treatments
- opportunity to participate in clinical trials
- reduced anxiety over symptoms
Learn to Use Screening Tools
General Introduction
- Introduction to Cognitive Screening and Administration (22 min)
- Communicating Cognitive Assessment Results (17 min)
- Delivering a Diagnosis (9 min)
Screening Tools
Mini-Cog
- Administration / demonstration (4 mins)
- Administration / demonstration (4 mins)
- How to use and score (15 min)
SLUMS (St Louis University Mental Status) Examination
Montreal Cognitive Assessment
AD8 Dementia Screening Interview
Alzheimer’s Association Cognitive Assessment Tools
Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale
Care Planning
Microlearning Modules for Primary Care Providers
Microlearning is an innovative way of teaching and delivering content in small, very specific bursts. It allows the learner to consume training in 5-10 minutes and apply new knowledge and skills quickly. Given the demands on primary care providers it makes sense that microlearning is a good fit. For best results view one lesson a week. This approach, as opposed to binge watching, helps you to recall and apply.
A number of studies identified that there are real opportunities to improve the interface between patients with dementia, their care partners and their primary care providers. This training focuses on person-centered approaches to caring for patients and the content is from the perspectives of people living with dementia and their care partners.
Primary Care Dementia Practice Toolkit
The Primary Care Dementia Practice Toolkit includes screening tools, links to brief training materials, information on billing codes and memory assessment centers, protocols for follow-up care and care coordination, and provision of appropriate referrals. The Toolkit follows four steps to improved dementia care:
- Cognitive Screening
- Refer for Diagnosis
- Follow-up Care Planning and
- Referrals for Services and Supports
For further information or to provide feedback, please contact the Dementia Services Director at george.worthington@dars.virginia.gov or call 804-662-9154.
Linkages to Community
Connect with the Area Agency on Aging for your patient’s locality for community-based services including nutrition, transportation, and more.
Helpful Resources
- Referral & Coordination Tools
Algorithms and forms to support streamlined referrals. - Best Practices
Recommended models of care and quality improvement ideas. - Local Services
Connect patients and care partners to community support.
This program is managed by Dementia Capable Virginia.