Dakota Geriatrics

Home of the Dakota Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP).

The Dakota Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Programteam (GWEP) employs evidence-based strategies to strengthen geriatrics knowledge among health professionals, integrates geriatrics into primary health cares and improves dementia care. The GWEP seeks higher quality care of older adults, helping primary care teams transform into age and dementia-friendly enterprises.

Program Objectives

• Develop reciprocal partnerships between academia, primary care sites/delivery systems (including nursing homes), and community organizations to transform clinic trainings environments into integrated geriatrics and primary care sites/delivery systems that are age-friendly and dementia-friendly.

• Provide interprofessional geriatrics clinical training and education to students, residents, fellows, faculty, and preceptors in Tribal, Tribal Organizations, Underserved and/or Rural (TTOUR) primary care sites/delivery systems with the intent to have them practice in these sites upon completion of their program.

Establish and/or maintain education and training programs in TTOUR primary care sites/delivery systems that provide the supportive care workforce, direct care workers, and the primary care workforce with the knowledge and skills to improve the care of older adults, including persons living with dementia, by using innovative technology and methods.

Vision

To promote healthy lifespans through a better prepared healthcare workforce, healthcare system, and community.

Mission

To engage multiple partners in academia, healthcare and the community to strengthen healthcare of the older adult and the aging population through collaborative, inter-professional, and culturally attentive education. The partnership tests and adopts new ideas for:

• Improving Geriatrics education across all healthcare disciplines
• Transforming primary care into Age-Friendly enterprises
• Promoting healthy brains and optimal dementia care