ACC Dementia Care & Cognitive Programming 3

Question 1

What is the primary principle of validation therapy when applied to dementia care activities?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledging and accepting the emotional truth behind a resident's statements and behaviors

Answer

Validation therapy holds that the emotional truth behind a person's statements is more important than factual accuracy, and acknowledging feelings reduces distress and improves communication.

Question 2

Which of the following BEST describes 'learned helplessness' in a resident with dementia?

Accepted Answer

A resident who has stopped attempting tasks because they expect failure or are denied opportunities to try

Answer

Learned helplessness occurs when residents stop attempting activities due to repeated failure or lack of opportunity, which activity professionals should prevent by offering appropriate challenges and encouragement.

Question 3

Music therapy benefits residents with dementia PRIMARILY because:

Accepted Answer

Musical memory pathways are often preserved even in advanced dementia due to emotional processing regions of the brain

Answer

Music engages emotional memory pathways in the brain that are often preserved even when other memory systems are damaged, allowing residents to respond to familiar music even in later stages.

Question 4

What is the recommended approach when a resident with dementia exhibits a 'catastrophic reaction' — an extreme emotional outburst in response to a stimulus?

Accepted Answer

Remove the triggering stimulus, reduce environmental stimulation, and offer calm reassurance

Answer

Catastrophic reactions occur when a person with dementia is overwhelmed; the appropriate response is to remove triggers, reduce environmental stimulation, and provide calm, reassuring presence.

Question 5

Which principle should guide an activity professional when a resident with dementia repeatedly asks the same question throughout a session?

Accepted Answer

Respond with patience each time as if it is the first time, addressing the underlying emotional need

Answer

Repeated questions often reflect an underlying emotional need such as anxiety or insecurity; responding with patience each time addresses this need and maintains dignity without causing distress.

(ACC) Activity Consultant Certified Practice Test

(ACC) Activity Consultant Certified Practice Test

ACC Dementia Care & Cognitive Programming 3