Dementia training for aged care workers key to quality care
Completing a dementia-focused leadership program has given Personal Care Assistant Kate a greater understanding of dementia and how best to care for people living with the condition.
More than half of residential aged care residents live with dementia and two in three people with dementia are living in the community.
Therefore, it’s important that professionals working in health care, such as Kate, understand the essential role they play in providing quality dementia care across a variety of settings.
Kate, who recently completed Dementia Australia’s Certificate IV in Dementia Practice has seen the positive impact of her study in her work environment and relationships with her peers.
“The more I can learn about dementia, the more I am able to educate other staff and provide families with a bit more comfort,” she said.
The Certificate IV in Dementia Practice is a 12-month fully funded online course, in which participants engage in a combination of practical training, online learning and weekly online group meetings with a facilitator.
Kate said that a key takeaway from the program was understanding the importance of encouraging residents to maintain their independence, preferences and chosen lifestyle as much as possible.
“People living with dementia can be independent if you support them,” Kate said.
“For example, if they are able, put a mirror in front of them and give them their shaver and demonstrate that they can shave themselves instead of doing it for them.”
Quality care for people living with dementia requires a flexible approach, providing each resident with the best possible care and support in a way that may differ from person to person.
The certificate program encourages participants to share learnings, personal preferences they have noticed from residents and feedback whenever they can.
“I do find now that when I am talking to other co-workers, I’ll slow down and explain more about the impact of dementia for our residents,” Kate said.
Centre for Dementia Learning Director Dr David Sykes reiterated the value of an upskilled aged care workforce that is educated in dementia care.
“Their dedication, compassion and skill create an environment where people living with dementia can feel safe, respected and engaged,” Dr Sykes said.
For more information on the Certificate IV in Dementia Practice, visit the website or contact cdl@dementia.org.au
This is a Dementia Training Australia course, funded by the Australian Government under the Dementia and Aged Care Services Fund and delivered by Dementia Australia (RTO Code 2512).
