CDST®
Certified Dementia Support Therapist®
The Certified Dementia Support Therapist (CDST) credential is awarded exclusively by BEST For Seniors® to staff practitioners of our proprietary program, Dementia Support Therapy®.
Established in 2007, BEST For Seniors is a leader in non-medical therapeutic programs for older adults and others with physical and cognitive challenges.
The CDST credential signifies that a practitioner has completed rigorous training and possesses advanced skills in supporting the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of people living with dementia and other neurocognitive conditions.
To be eligible for the CDST training program, a candidate must meet the following prerequisites:
- Bachelor’s degree (Masters preferred) – Degree in one of the following: recreation therapy, education, psychology, social work, or other relevant field of study.
- Certified Personal Trainer credential – A current Certified Personal Trainer credential from an institution accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). A CDST must have the physical capacity to assist patients in the performance of light to moderate exercise.
- Alzheimer’s Association essentiALZ® training – Completion of this course ensures that CDSTs have a solid understanding of fundamental dementia care principles and best practices as outlined by the leading organization in the field.
- Five years professional experience – Experience in inpatient or agency outpatient care of dementia, elderly, or disabled patients.
In addition to the professional and educational prerequisites outlined above, candidates must have personal attributes that prepare them for a successful career as a CDST. A heartfelt desire to help others should be combined with excellent verbal and written communication skills, a strong work ethic, organized work habits, self-discipline, creativity, and the ability to make decisions and work independently.
Our CDST training program encompasses all key areas of well-being for individuals and families living with a neurocognitive condition. Our goal is to enable patients to continue living at home or semi-independently with family support and to delay—if not avoid—the need for residential memory care.
The BEST For Seniors Certified Dementia Support Therapist credential represents our practitioners’ personal dedication to helping others and their commitment to a professional standard of excellence.
For more information about BEST For Seniors Dementia Support Therapy, visit: bestforseniors.org
BEST For Seniors does not provide medical services or advice. BEST For Seniors Certified Dementia Support Therapists cannot diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any illness or condition. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about your physical or mental health. BEST For Seniors, Dementia Support Therapy, Certified Dementia Support Therapist, and CDST are trademarks of New Freedom Health. Copyright © 2024 New Freedom Health.