Dementia care training

How to run it

1. 1Present it at a team meeting or a caregiver support evening. It works for new care staff and for families.
2. 2Use first names or initials that aren't real residents in the scenarios. Invite people to share similar situations without identifying anyone.
3. 3Vote on each scenario before the discussion. Ask someone who chose differently from the majority to explain why.
4. 4Collect the open-question answers and add the best approaches to residents' care plans and life stories.

Questions people ask

What does dementia care training cover?

What dementia is, person-centered care, communication techniques, understanding distress and behavior, approaches such as ABC, safety, and looking after yourself as a carer.

Is dementia training required for care staff?

Often, yes. Many US states require dementia training for assisted living and memory care staff, and in England the Care Certificate includes dementia awareness. Check your regulator's rules on hours and topics.

What is caregiver training?

Practical training for paid or family caregivers on daily care, communication, safety and their own wellbeing. For dementia, the focus is on understanding the person and responding to distress calmly.