Evaluating Meaningful Connections Educational Program with Memory Care Staff

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) work closely with memory care residents living in assisted living facilities (ALFs). Relationships are developed between CNAs and residents; however, meaningful relationships are crucial in providing quality care to older adults. Meaningful Connections, an educational program strives to enhance the relationships between CNAs and residents. Meaningful Connections was implemented in an assisted living facility focusing on CNAs working in a memory care unit. Three weekly presentations focusing on person-centered care, communication, and empathy were adapted for CNAs working with dementia patients. CNAs were then surveyed to assess if the program, Meaningful Connections, is feasible and acceptable in ALF settings. Results from the survey revealed that CNAs found the topic of person-centered care the most interesting and helpful and found the topic of empathy the least interesting and least helpful. CNAs reported using more person-centered care, communication, and empathy techniques after the conclusion of the Meaningful Connections education program. This implies that CNAs do benefit from additional trainings and should be offered educational programs such as Meaningful Connections in their workplace.