AAC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield AAC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. How can environmental modifications aid dementia care? → Enhancing safety and orientation
2. Which behavior during an activity session may indicate that the level of stimulation is too HIGH for a person with Alzheimer's? → Turning away, covering ears, or increased restlessness
3. Bereavement support in the hospice model is typically provided to families for how long after the patient's death? → At least 13 months
4. What is 'anticipatory grief' in the context of Alzheimer's caregiving? → Grief experienced before death in response to ongoing losses
5. A caregiver reports they have not had a full night of sleep in months. In a counseling session, the most immediate focus should be on: → Identifying respite resources to address sleep deprivation
6. The concept of 'flow' in dementia activity programming refers to: → A state of optimal engagement where task challenge matches the person's current ability
7. How do legal standards impact dementia care providers? → They ensure safe and legal care
8. Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) primarily affects which cognitive domains first? → Behavior, personality, and language
9. Which lifestyle change can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease? → Regular physical exercise and cognitive activity
10. How often should care plans be reviewed? → Regularly and as needed
11. Which theorist is most closely associated with developing the concept of 'personhood' as central to dementia care? → Tom Kitwood
12. Which phase of a clinical trial is the FIRST to test an experimental Alzheimer's drug in human beings? → Phase I
13. An occupational therapist recommends adaptive equipment for a person with Alzheimer's. What is the primary goal of this care plan intervention? → Promote independence and safety in daily activities
14. The Alzheimer's Association's 'ALZConnected' platform primarily serves caregivers by providing: → An online peer-to-peer support community available 24/7
15. What is the recommended frequency for formally reviewing and updating a care plan in a long-term care setting under federal regulations? → Quarterly and following significant changes in condition
16. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for family counseling & support groups in AAC practice? → Strong analytical skills combined with effective communication and ethical judgment
17. In Alzheimer's trials, ARIA (Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities) is a side effect most associated with which type of therapy? → Anti-amyloid immunotherapy drugs such as lecanemab or aducanumab
18. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for activity programming & engagement in AAC practice? → Strong analytical skills combined with effective communication and ethical judgment
19. What is person-centered care in dementia support? → Tailoring care to the person
20. In the context of AAC certification, what is the most important consideration when implementing end-of-life & palliative care? → Ensuring alignment with established standards, stakeholder needs, and best practices
21. A memory care unit introduces a 'wandering garden' with raised planting beds. Which therapeutic benefit does this PRIMARILY provide? → It provides purposeful, meaningful activity while supporting safe movement outdoors
22. A care team is designing a caregiver education program. Which delivery format is MOST effective for skill-based caregiving tasks? → Hands-on skills training with return demonstration
23. When a person with Alzheimer's begins refusing all food and fluids, the care team should FIRST: → Assess for reversible causes such as dental pain or medication side effects
24. What is the significance of documentation in ethical care? → To maintain accurate records
25. The amyloid PET scan or CSF amyloid biomarker confirmation required before prescribing lecanemab serves which purpose? → Verifying amyloid pathology is present, confirming Alzheimer's etiology
26. Which of the following best describes 'anticipatory grief' in the context of Alzheimer's caregiving? → Grief experienced in response to the progressive losses occurring before death
27. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for environmental design & safety in AAC practice? → Strong analytical skills combined with effective communication and ethical judgment
28. What is the term for the unintended health problems that a participant might experience due to an experimental drug in a clinical trial? → Adverse events
29. Which best describes the role of 'structured routines' in managing behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's disease? → Predictable routines reduce anxiety by providing a sense of security and familiarity
30. What is the primary goal of dementia-care simulation training exercises that use empathy-building tools (e.g., goggles, gloves that mimic sensory loss)? → To help staff experience a perspective closer to that of a person with dementia