Illinois social workers frequently have questions about the Alzheimer’s and dementia continuing education requirement. This guide answers the most common questions to help you understand and meet this state mandate efficiently.
How many hours of Alzheimer’s and dementia training are required in Illinois?
Illinois requires licensed social workers to complete 1 hour of continuing education specifically focused on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care. This is a distinct requirement that must be fulfilled during each license renewal period, typically every two years.
Who must complete this training?
All licensed social workers in Illinois who are renewing their credentials must complete this training. This includes Licensed Social Workers (LSW), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), and other social work license categories regulated by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The requirement applies regardless of your practice setting or specialty area.
Complete Your Required Alzheimer’s & Dementia Training Online
Approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — ANCC-accredited with instant certificate.
When is the Alzheimer’s and dementia training due?
The training must be completed within your current renewal cycle before your license expiration date. Illinois social work licenses typically renew biennially, and you must have completed all required continuing education, including this 1-hour mandate, before submitting your renewal application. It’s advisable to complete the requirement early in your renewal period to avoid last-minute complications.
What topics does the training cover?
Approved Alzheimer’s and dementia courses cover essential topics mandated by Illinois law. The curriculum includes recognizing signs and stages of dementia, implementing person-centered care approaches, developing effective communication strategies with individuals experiencing cognitive decline, managing challenging behaviors, and supporting family caregivers. The training emphasizes practical skills you can apply immediately in your social work practice.
Complete Your Required Alzheimer’s & Dementia Training Online
Approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — ANCC-accredited with instant certificate.
Can I take the course online?
Yes, online courses are fully accepted and often preferred by busy social workers. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation accepts online continuing education from approved providers. Online courses offer the convenience of completing the training on your schedule from any location with internet access, and certificates are typically available immediately upon completion.
Which CE providers are approved?
Illinois accepts Alzheimer’s and dementia training from ANCC-accredited providers and other continuing education organizations recognized by the state. When selecting a course, verify that the provider is approved for Illinois social workers and that the course specifically meets the Alzheimer’s and dementia training requirement. ANCC accreditation is widely recognized and ensures quality standards.
How do I get my certificate?
Upon completing an approved course, you receive a certificate of completion that documents your fulfillment of the requirement. Most online providers issue certificates immediately after you finish the course, allowing you to download and save a PDF copy. Keep this certificate in your professional records, as you may need to provide proof of completion when renewing your license or during an audit.
Complete Your Required Alzheimer’s & Dementia Training Online
Approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — ANCC-accredited with instant certificate.
Related Illinois CE Resources
- Illinois 2026 License Renewal: Complete Guide to Mandatory CE Requirements
https://renewnowce.com/blog/2025/10/27/illinois-2026-license-renewal-complete-guide-to-mandatory-ce-requirements/ - Illinois 4-Hour Mandated CE Package – Renew Now CE
https://renewnowce.com/course-details/228
Illinois RN License Renewal CE Package
https://renewnowce.com/course-details/227