Kendal at Ithaca says 21 older adults complete dementia-volunteer training quarter

CAYUGA HEIGHTS — Kendal at Ithaca, a senior-living community, says 21 residents have completed an eight-hour, dementia-education course and are now certified dementia volunteers. The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP), based in Sparta, New Jersey, conducts the training program. It marks a “significant milestone” for both the participants, the community, and NCCDP as Kendal at Ithaca is the first community to certify resident dementia volunteers, Kendal at Ithaca contended in its announcement. David Bahamonde, VP of corporate training for NCCDP led the Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Seminarfor residents back on June 24-25. The initiative for this training originated from Kendal residents during a strategic-planning session, highlighting the community’s commitment to volunteerism and lifelong learning. “We are incredibly proud to be the first community to partner with NCCDP for this certification,” Maria Giampaolo, life-engagement manager at Kendal at Ithaca, said in the announcement. “Kendal at Ithaca’s resident enthusiasm for this training underscores the values of volunteerism and continuous education that are core to the community’s inclusive values.” The NCCDP says its vision is to lead a “global transformation in care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.” Given the strong public interest in the program, Kendal at Ithaca plans to offer another session later in the year. It will allow more residents to secure this certification and contribute to the well-being of individuals living with dementia.