As cognitive decline impacts an increasing number of active older adults, generic senior fitness programming is no longer enough. Dementia Client Strategies for Trainers is a specialized, interactive live workshop designed for fitness professionals and facility leaders seeking to master the art and exercise science of working with clients diagnosed with dementia. This live masterclass bridges current research and practical coaching to equip trainers with actionable tools for effective engagement, safe movement, and purposeful support. Through real-time movement breakdowns, case studies, and collaborative troubleshooting, participants will learn how to navigate support-team dynamics, master communication techniques (the dos and don'ts), and implement crucial onboarding protocols. We dive deep into behavioral factors, applied Montessori principles, and the role of exercise science to help you construct a practical movement toolkit. Transform your coaching approach, elevate your professional value, and make a profound, positive impact on the lives of individuals living with dementia.
Deborah Rothschild
Deborah Rothschild is a fitness professional with over 20 years of experience, specializing in empowering adults 55+. She holds a Master’s in Exercise Science from CALU and is certified by NASM, ACE, and AFAA. Her training includes Senior Fitness, Brain Health, BoneFit, Cancer Recovery, Parkinson’s Wellness, and Montessori for Dementia. Deborah is the owner of Tough Agers LLC and a NCCAP Approved CE Educator. She offers personalized training on-location, via her app "Deborah Does Fitness," and live Zoom sessions. She has created courses including ToughAgers®️ Active Older Adult Fitness and Dementia Client Strategies for Trainers. A sought-after speaker, Deborah has presented at SCW Fitness Conferences since 2023. She is dedicated to advancing active aging and industry standards through her innovative programs and education.
Bridge Research & Live Practical Coaching: Translate current research on exercise and cognitive health into real-time coaching skills—learning to differentiate between normal age-related memory loss, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia progression during workouts.
Master Communication Techniques: Gain actionable verbal and non-verbal communication strategies (the dos and don'ts) that build immediate trust, lower frustration, and optimize session cooperation.
Apply Proven Montessori Principles: Learn how structuring movement sessions around autonomy, independence, and respect drives engagement, confidence, and daily movement outcomes.
Navigate Support-Team Dynamics: Learn how to communicate professionally and effectively across the client’s entire support ecosystem, including care partners, family members, and health professionals.
Streamline Onboarding Protocols: Master the pre-session screening process by identifying the exact client intake forms, essential health questions, and safety considerations required before initiating programming.
Build a Practical Exercise Toolkit: Construct an adaptable exercise repertoire designed to reduce fall risk, preserve functional movement, and support overall long-term health and well-being.
Earn High-Value CECs & Credentials: Complete the workshop and post-quiz to earn approved Continuing Education Credits across major organizations—including 0.4 NASM, 0.4 AFAA, 4.0 ACSM, 4.0 NCCAP, and 0.50 ACE (including 0.10 ACE Professional Conduct and Ethics CECs)—plus a Certificate of Completion and eligibility for the Dementia-Friendly Fitness Professionals Directory.
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