NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR CDP & CADDCT OF THE YEAR!
Hello to our incredible NCCDP community!
Your dedication and passion for dementia education continue to inspire us every day. Together, we’re raising the bar in dementia care—and it’s because of YOU that our mission keeps growing stronger.
We share one purpose: to create meaningful, compassionate change for those living with dementia. Watching how you bring your knowledge to life in your daily care practices makes us immensely proud.
Nominations are now open for CDP and CADDCT of the Year!
If you know someone who exemplifies excellence, compassion, and leadership in dementia care, we’d love to hear about them. Help us celebrate those who go above and beyond in their commitment to quality care!
You can email us with your nomination at nccdpoffice@nccdp.org
Please put NOMINATION in the subject of your email.
Nominations must be in by November 30th, 2025.
Nominees must have a certification with us that is in good standing.
You cannot nominate yourself.
Nominations should include any supporting narrative that elevates the nominee as exceptional in their community and in the field. For anyone chosen for the award, they and community staff agree to be interviewed and photographed, which may be posted in our newsletter, in articles and on social media.
If your nomination only has a name, with no further information, we cannot accept the nomination.
Let's Talk About Dementia
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Follow us on YouTube!
Subscribe to our Youtube Channel for weekly videos featuring leading dementia care experts on a variety of topics!
Thanksgiving Activities to Bring Joy & Connection
Thanksgiving is more than a day- it’s a time to celebrate gratitude, connection, and shared memories. For older adults in nursing homes, assisted living, or memory care, small, meaningful activities can make the day truly special.
Gratitude Tree:
Invite residents and visitors to write something they’re thankful for on paper “leaves” and hang them on a branch or bulletin board. It’s a simple, visual reminder of thankfulness.
Pumpkin or Gourd Painting:
Skip carving and try painting or decorating small pumpkins with stickers or ribbon. It’s safe, creative, and makes great table décor.
Story-Sharing & Music:
Encourage residents to share favorite Thanksgiving memories or play nostalgic music during meals. Familiar songs and stories can spark smiles and conversation.
Recipe Reminiscence:
Ask residents to share a favorite holiday recipe or memory of cooking with family. Compile these into a “Community Cookbook” for everyone to enjoy.
Sensory Touchpoints:
Use familiar scents like cinnamon or apple spice, warm lighting, and cozy textures to create a calm, comforting atmosphere- especially supportive in memory-care settings.
For Residents Without Family Nearby:
Encourage “Adopt-a-Resident” visits where staff, volunteers, or fellow residents share the meal or a short visit. A friendly chat, card, or small gift can make someone feel remembered and included.
Tip: Involve families, volunteers, and staff in each activity. Participation creates belonging and connection.
Upcoming Seminars:
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care (ADDC) Seminar:
Interested in Certification?
Certified Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care Trainer (CADDCT)
As a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer (CADDCT), you will be certified to present our comprehensive Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care (ADDC) curriculum to professionals across multiple industries within the geriatric healthcare industry.
Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP)
This certification is open to all healthcare professionals, front-line staff, clergy, and other medical professionals who work in and around the geriatric healthcare industry and have at least one full year of paid experience.