In Maryland, regulations mandate specific dementia care training for staff in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) and long-term care facilities to ensure the provision of appropriate care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Nursing Homes: The Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.07.02.26 addresses Special Care Units, including Dementia Care Units:
- Staff Training: Facilities must ensure that all staff assigned to dementia care units receive training specific to the needs of residents with dementia. This training should cover areas such as communication techniques, behavioral interventions, and understanding the progression of dementia.
- Regulation: These requirements are detailed in COMAR 10.07.02.26.
MD Rules
Assisted Living Programs: Maryland regulations for assisted living programs also emphasize dementia-specific training:
- Staff Training: Direct care staff must receive training in dementia care, including communication strategies and behavioral management. Ongoing education is required to ensure staff remain updated on best practices in dementia care. These provisions are outlined in the Maryland Department of Health’s regulations for assisted living programs. Maryland Department of Health
The Maryland Alzheimer’s dementia training requirements reflect Maryland’s commitment to enhancing the quality of care for individuals with dementia in long-term care settings.
