1. Susan D. Gilster, PhD, FACHCA Alois Alzheimer Center
Exceptional Training, Support and Retention for Staff in a Dedicated Alzheimer’s Facility
Susan D. Gilster, PhD, FACHCA
Alois Alzheimer Center

2. Conflict of Interest Disclosure Susan Gilster, PhD
Has no real or apparent
conflicts of interest to report.

4. Alois Alzheimer Center
Opened May 1987
First totally dedicated facility in the US
Continuum of care 4 (5) self sustained units
Live w others like selves
Allows highest versus lowest functioning
Individualized care, “now person centered”

13. SERVICE: An Organizational Model
Service-to all, residents, families and staff
Education - selection
Respect-for all- to all
Vision-Shared
Inclusion-all voices
Communication-honest, open, consistent
Enrichment-Caring

14. Resident and Family Satisfaction
Family/resident satisfaction measured annually for past 24 years
Satisfaction results shared with residents/families and staff input on actions
59 items (1=very unhappy 4=very happy)
Results overall 85% response = 3.76
Would you recommend = 3.94
Most comments regarding loving care of staff

15. Alois-24+Years Results
24 years weekly meetings-education, support, sharing, communication- all staff-all 3 shifts
Staff satisfaction 54 items overall = 3.76
Retention rate 90%
Average tenure 10.3 years
Turnover <10% (av: %)
Multiple awards-staff, facility and surveys
National Quality Award Step II

16. SERVICE Model Research in CCRC
Turnover decreased by 50% then 23% (2nd)
Financial savings > million dollars 1st year
Staff satisfaction improved in 3 months
2 years-Overall staff satisfaction p=<.0001
Satisfaction with work p=<.001
Satisfaction in relationships p=>.001
Satisfaction with training/education p=<.0026
Continued improvements in 4th year

26. Conclusion SERVICE is foundational Respect and inclusion of all
Select, prepare and ongoing education/support sharing necessary
Clear Shared Vision
Care for one another
Great work and still have FUN