The Allen Cognitive Disabilities Model: Intervention in Dementia, Part 1

In 2021, Institute on Aging invited Dr. Patricia Cornille to present a two-part theoretical & evidenced-based understanding of history, development and use of the Cognitive Disabilities Model (CDM) in dementia care. The CDM is used by healthcare professionals, caregivers, researchers, and organizations to understand and support people living with dementia, with an emphasis on how global cognitive changes impact behavior and function. In this session (Part 1), levels of ability and limitations are identified, while the capacity to perform routine tasks and adapt to novel situations are recognized. Emphasis is placed on the theoretical tenets of the CDM in the context of understanding how underlying cognitive processes, task analysis, personal factors, and sensory cues are utilized in functional contexts at each stage of dementia and in mild cognitive impairment. The 6 cognitive levels utilized with the CDM are reviewed, and use of assessments within the CDM, skilled observations and interpretation in directing care and predicting outcomes are discussed. Presenter: Patricia Cornille, OTD, has 30+ years of clinical experience as an occupational therapist, and is the founder and clinical director of Vita Cura Services (https://vitacuraservices.com). She is President of the Global Action Coalition for Dementia, Mental Health and Cognitive Disability, and is past President of the Allen Cognitive Network. Dr. Cornille trained and mentored thousands of healthcare professionals, students, and caregivers on the use of the CDM, and worked extensively with the author of the CDM (Claudia K. Allen), using the model in clinical research, program development and in education in a variety of settings. Moderator: Caitlin Morgan, Education Manager.