Abstract
Aim:
To evaluate the ABC model and describe in what way the program can be appropriate for personnel working in dementia and geriatric care.
Background:
There is today and in the near future substantial challenges in the health service for older people. In 2050 the amount of people over 67 years in Norway is expected to be twice as many as today. Consequently, the demand for knowledge about older people and people with dementia diseases is increasing. To meet these challenges a systematic teaching program, called ABC model, has been implemented in Norwegian municipalities' health services since 1996. The ABC model is a multi-disciplinary training program. This model is based on theory booklets, study groups and seminars.
Methods:
A national survey with structured questionnaire was sent to participants in 306 municipalities. There are two samples in the study: (1) local contacts and department manager/committees and (2) ABC- participants.
Findings and conclusions:
More than 92% of the participants responded that the ABC models provided reinforced knowledge in order to take care of older people and additionally the training had an affect on the relationship between patients and relatives in a positive way. In order to implement the knowledge in practice, the leader played an important role.