Frequently Asked Questions.

1. My Dementia seminar did not include an exam. Can I still submit my seminar as part of the requirements for obtaining certification?

Answer: Yes. If, you took a seminar prior to January 2004 and it did not include an exam, and if, the instructor or sponsor is currently an approved seminar provider, you may submit the seminar.

2. I recently took a seminar and the instructor is not listed as an approved instructor, can I still submit the application?

Answer: No. The instructor must be on our approved list and the curriculum must be approved by the NCCDP. We recommend that you contact the instructor to submit the curriculum for approval. All approved instructors and their sponsors are listed on the www.nccdp.org web site by state.

3. What if the instructor does not wish to have the course approved, what recourse do I have to become certified.

Answer: Each application will be approved on a “case by case” basis. The NCCDP will need to confirm the class that you graduated from.

4. What is the Train the Trainer Program?

Answer: The NCCDP offers Train the Trainer workshops for seasoned instructors and In-service directors who wish to present all day training seminars on Dementia / Alzheimer’s.

5. When is the next Train the Trainer Program?

Answer: The Train the Trainer Program is offered twice a year and held in different parts of the country. If you are interested in the next program, please email us at nationalccdp@aol.com We will send you information when the location and dates have been selected.

6. What is included in the Train the Trainer Program.

Answer: The cost will include the overheads, handouts and recommended books /videos. The seminar will include; the curriculum, certificates and brochures. The seminar will also provide information on marketing and obtaining CEU’s.

7. How long is the certification good for and do I have to renew.

Answer: Two years and yes you will receive a reminder notice to renew.

8. Do I have to submit additional CEU’s when I renew my certification in two years?

Answer: Yes. Please refer to the body of knowledge for a list of seminars and courses that the NCCDP will accept for renewal of your certification.

9. Do I need a college degree to obtain certification?

Answer: No. Only if following Option 1. If following Option 2, you need a high school diploma.

10. What do I receive, once I am approved for certification?

Answer: You will receive a certificate in the mail. Also, you will receive a quarterly newsletter which is only available through the internet. You will need to make sure we have your email address.

11. If, I want to be an associate member but do not wish to be certified, can I do this?

Answer: Yes. Simply fill out the membership form. We welcome associate members to our organization. We will need your email address for the quarterly online newsletter.

12. My company wishes to become a corporate sponsor, is this possible?

Answer: We welcome corporate sponsorship. Please email us in confidence to

13. Am I eligible to become a CDP?

Answer: In order to apply for CDP there are 4 options. Please read the following options carefully to see which criteria your qualifications meet:

General Standards for Option 1 

• College Graduate with a degree from an Accredited College or University.
• Must have current license or certification in your health care field.
• Must have a minimum of 3 years of experience in a geriatric health related field.
• Must have completed at minimum, the 7 hour NCCDP Comprehensive Dementia Curriculum taught by an approved NCCDP Certified Instructor.
• The certification is for two years.  At which time, you will need to renew your certification.  To apply for continued certification, you will need to complete at minimum 10 hours of continuing education in the area of Dementia or Alzheimer’s.  Please refer to the Education Criteria.  You will receive a notice in the mail ( 2 months prior to the deadline) of your deadline for renewal.

General Standards for Option 2

• GED or High School Diploma.
• Must have current license or certification in your health care field.
• Must have a minimum of 4 years of experience in a geriatric health related field.
• Must have completed at minimum, the 7 hour NCCDP Comprehensive Dementia Curriculum taught by an approved NCCDP Certified Instructor
• The certification is for two years.  At which time, you will need to renew your certification.  To apply for continued certification, you will need to complete at minimum 10 hours of continuing education in the area of Dementia or Alzheimer’s and provide an additional 5 In-Service’s provided by their place of employment (health care setting).  Please refer to the Education Criteria.  You will receive a notice in the mail ( 2 months prior to the deadline) of your deadline for renewal.

General Standards for Option 3

• Graduate degree from an accredited College or University.
• Must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in a geriatric health related field.
• Must have completed at minimum, the 7 hour NCCDP Comprehensive Dementia Curriculum taught by an approved NCCDP Certified Instructor
• The certification is for two years.  At which time, you will need to renew your certification.  To apply for continued certification, you will need to complete at minimum 10 hours of continuing education in the area of Dementia or Alzheimer’s.  Please refer to the Education Criteria.  You will receive a notice in the mail ( 2 months prior to the deadline) of your deadline for renewal

General Standards for Option 4 (No licenses, certifications, or degrees)
The NCCDP recognizes most accrediting bodies and also recognizes that some state regulations for long term care facilities do not require certification or license for certain professions.

• This option is only for the following professions: Admissions Directors, Marketing Directors, Activities, Clergy, Volunteer Coordinators, Social Workers, In-Service Directors, and Long Term Care Consultants.
• Must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in geriatric health related field.
• Must have completed at minimum, the 7 hour NCCDP Comprehensive Dementia Curriculum taught by an approved NCCDP Certified Instructor
• Must attach to this application a letter from your facility administrator which states that you are employed by the facility and qualified under your state requirements to hold the title and position for which you are employed.
• If your state long term care regulations do not require or indicate a certification or license for your profession/title, please attach a copy of the state regulation that indicates the criteria/qualifications for your profession/title.
• The certification is for two years.  At which time, you will need to renew your certification.  To apply for continued certification, you will need to complete at minimum 10 hours of continuing education in the area of Dementia or Alzheimer’s.  Please refer to the Education Criteria.  You will receive a notice in the mail ( 2 months prior to the deadline) of your deadline for renewal.

14. Where can I get training in Dementia and Alzheimer's Care.

Database of Approved Instructor

Courses provided by Approved Instructors