September 27, 2024
For Immediate Release
Kendal at Ithaca, 2230 N. Triphammer Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
Media contacts: Hannah Merschen, 856-938-9555, hannah@akcg.com
Dani Chontey, 607-266-5342, dchontey@kai.kendal.org
Ithaca, NY – July 3, 2024—Kendal at Ithaca proudly announces that twenty-one residents have completed an eight-hour in-depth dementia education course and are now certified dementia volunteers. This comprehensive training program, conducted by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP), 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.
David Bahamonde, Vice President of Corporate Training for NCCDP led the “Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Seminar” for residents June 24 and 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. The overwhelming response and participation from the residents demonstrate their dedication to enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with dementia.
“We are incredibly proud to be the first community to partner with NCCDP for this certification,” shares Maria Giampaolo, Life Engagement Manager at Kendal at Ithaca. “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’s vision is to “lead a global transformation in care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, cultivating a future where all caregivers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and empathy to treat individuals living with cognitive change.” This collaboration with Kendal at Ithaca is a testament to this vision, as it empowers residents to make a meaningful impact within their community and beyond.
Given the high interest in the program, Kendal at Ithaca plans to offer another session later in the year. This will allow more residents to gain this valuable certification and contribute to the well-being of individuals living with dementia.
For more information about Kendal at Ithaca and its programs, please visit kai.kendal.org
About Kendal at Ithaca:
Kendal at Ithaca sits on a beautiful 105-acre campus amid New York’s Finger Lakes region. Residents enjoy extensive services and amenities, comprehensive health care for life and a strong, values-based sense of community. Located near Cornell University and Ithaca College, the community has easy access to extensive cultural, educational and recreational activities. Find out more at https://kai.kendal.org/.
About NCCDP
The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP) is dedicated to providing comprehensive dementia education and certification to healthcare professionals and caregivers. Their mission is to ensure that all individuals with dementia receive the highest quality of care through skilled and empathetic caregivers.