Dates
Course details
- Time: 9.30-16.30 (9.15am arrival for tea/coffee and registration)
- Venue: Coed Pella, Colwyn Bay
- Trainer: Talking Life
- Targeted services: Community Wellbeing, Disability Team, Older People Team, Vulnerable People Team, Commissioned Services
- Target group: Individuals who support people with dementia
Course aims and objectives
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Explain dementia and its impact on individuals with learning disabilities, including early symptoms and progression.
- Recognize unique challenges in diagnosing and supporting people with both LD and dementia.
- Implement person-centered strategies to enhance well-being, communication, and daily care.
- Apply practical tools and interventions such as memory aids, sensory adjustments, and behaviour support techniques.
- Develop individualized care plans and commit to meaningful actions for improving dementia support.
Session 1: Introduction to Dementia
- Definition & Types of Dementia – Understanding Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, and how dementia manifests differently in those with learning disabilities.
- Impact on the Brain & Behaviour – How neurological changes affect memory, reasoning, and daily function.
- Early vs. Late Symptoms – Recognizing subtle cognitive changes in individuals with LD.
- Discussion Activity – Staff share personal experiences of dementia in care settings.
Session 2: Dementia & Learning Disabilities – Key Points
- Why the risk is higher? – Exploring Down’s syndrome and other LD-related factors.
- Challenges in Diagnosis – Misinterpretation of symptoms and how to differentiate dementia progression.
- Supporting Emotional Well-being – Managing distress, behavioural changes, and adapting communication.
Session 3: Practical Strategies & Tools
- Person-Centered Approaches – Tailoring activities and environments to enhance quality of life.
- Tools for Cognitive Support – Memory aids, visual schedules, sensory interventions.
- Communication Techniques – Non-verbal strategies, validation therapy, adapting daily interactions.
Session 4: Review & Action Planning
- Reflection Exercise – Staff discuss key learnings and personal insights.
- Developing Care Plans – Identifying adjustments for individual support needs.
- Commitments to Change – Staff set goals for implementing strategies in their workplace.
- Final Q&A & Feedback – Ensuring all concerns and uncertainties are addressed.