Saint Croix County implements dementia training for staff and boosts recruitment efforts

Excitement is building for the upcoming Kitty Rhoades Memorial Memory Care Center in St. Croix County, Wisconsin, as officials unveil a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing care for residents with dementia. The center is set to implement a robust 40-hour training course for all staff, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide high-quality support.

"This training is invaluable in creating a continuum of care for our residents," said a representative during the recent government meeting. The initiative also extends to crisis staff and legal counsel, fostering a unified approach to resident care. Families will benefit too, with a dedicated module included in the training.

In addition to training, St. Croix County is actively addressing staffing challenges in the memory care unit. Strategies include competitive salaries, bonuses, and aggressive marketing to attract qualified personnel. The county has successfully recruited several current nursing staff members, who are already familiar with the facility, easing the transition into the new unit.

The staffing model is designed to ensure high-quality care, with a ratio of one nursing assistant for every two residents. This approach is crucial, especially given the ongoing difficulty in finding certified nursing assistants. The county's efforts to enhance recruitment and retention are supported by grant funding, allowing for higher incentives for internal staff compared to external hires.

As the Kitty Rhoades Memorial Memory Care Center prepares to open, these initiatives signal a strong commitment to providing exceptional care for residents and their families, setting a new standard in memory care services in the region.