Doesn't a certification already exist for those who care for those with Alzheimer's disease?

No. Believe it or not, there is no existing bona fide, independent, nationally recognized board that administers national standardized certification examinations following the healthcare certification/licensure model in this area of care. Some organizations offer training in conjunction with a test, then refer to it as certification. In reality those are certificates of training, rather than a certification such as we are advocating. Although most jobs in healthcare require certification or licensure, Alzheimer care has not yet been so designated. NCBAC has established there is a specific Body of Knowledge essential to most effectively deal with those who have Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. We are rectifying this oversight and have establish national standards..

Who will take this exam?

The CAC is appropriate for anyone who works with those who have Alzheimer's disease and related disorders: home healthcare providers, family members, nurse aides, caregivers, activity directors, nurses, house managers and administrators. The exam allows the candidate to demonstrate the knowledge necessary to effectively deal with the special needs of this population. The CAEd is for those such as nurses, social workers, trainers, or administrators who delve deeper into the subject and want to educate employees, family and the public.

Why is certification important? 

The objectives of certification in the private sector are to promote professional standards and improve the practice of quality assurance. Certification protects the consumer, the profession and employers by ensuring that individuals who obtain the credentials have skills consistent with specific national standards and criteria. It is a quality indicator when organizations support and employ those who are certified in their profession.

Who are you and how do you know how to create these certifications?

We are a group of people who believe in the mission of the NCBAC. Among us are psychometricians who are experienced in healthcare licensure and certification, as well as those who research the disease and care for the patients. In addition we have a large group of legal, association management, public relations, communication, public policy, journalism, healthcare, business, management, finance, and education experts who have committed their talent, time and resources to this project. Click here to see lists of the test development committee, item writers and external reviewers

How much will it cost to become certified?

It is $155 to take the CAC test and $335 for the CAEd test. Exams are administered through Pearson VUE Professional Testing Centers. Click here to apply to take the test.

The first year of registration is included in the test fee. Yearly registration to maintain current certification is $35 for Caregivers plus 6 hours continuing education requirements; and $65 for Educators plus 12 hours of continuing education.

What are the member benefits?

When candidates pass the examination they are placed in a national registry for verification of certification. In addition they receive a pin with the certification logo, a certificate, and newsletters.

How do candidates get training for the test?

Initially candidates will be those who are already working with people with Alzheimer's disease. We provide a reference list, Content Guideline, and Test Plan. An on-line course for Adult Learning Theory & Techniques is available for Educator candidates. The Alzheimer's Association and its local chapters and other organizations already provide extensive education and outreach. Many facilities already have training programs for their employees. Scientific research produced the Test Plan which allows trainers to follow the recommended course of study and match the national standards. Eventually, we anticipate community colleges will also provide specific training programs.

If employees expect more pay, aren't employers going to be resistant to certification?

There are enough benefits to the employer to balance the additional pay. The employee who takes the time and is interested in obtaining certification is likely to do better work and stay on the job, so turn-over costs are reduced. The administrators, community and marketing directors we interviewed felt the certification would be viewed as such a positive benefit to the families that it will help sell the facility or services to them. The certification will help ease the minds of family members by knowing that their loved one is being treated with understanding, compassion and competence. In addition, ideally certification will enable better care of the person with dementia, which will reduce hospitalizations (no loss of revenue), maintain the patient in the milieu (no loss of revenue), prevent litigation, and increase compliance with Public Health Department regulations.

Isn't there such a shortage of healthcare workers that it is foolish to have the extra hurdle of certification?

Yes, there is a shortage, but most types of healthcare workers are already licensed or certified. The certification raises the level and quality of employee. Persons with dementia offer unique challenges, and many of the people caring for them would welcome the opportunity to undergo the training to meet those challenges. Right now there is no national board certification specifically for those who work with Alzheimer's patients. Its time has come.