Course Outline
Introduction to Dementia
• Understanding dementia and how it affects individuals
• Common types of dementia
• Difference between dementia and normal ageing
• Myths and misconceptions surrounding dementia
Understanding Cognitive Changes
• Memory loss and confusion
• Communication difficulties
• Changes in behaviour and mood
• Impact on daily living activities
• Progression of dementia-related conditions
Person-Centred Care Principles
• Maintaining dignity and respect
• Supporting independence where possible
• Importance of empathy and patience
• Understanding individual needs and preferences
Communication and Interaction
• Effective communication techniques
• Supporting individuals experiencing confusion
• Non-verbal communication awareness
• Reducing distress and promoting reassurance
Supporting Safe Environments
• Recognising environmental triggers
• Importance of routine and familiarity
• Promoting comfort and wellbeing
• Identifying potential safeguarding concerns
Behavioural Awareness and Response
• Understanding behaviours of concern
• Responding calmly and appropriately
• Supporting emotional wellbeing
• Escalation and reporting procedures
Dementia Awareness in the Workplace
• Roles and responsibilities of staff
• Supporting families and carers
• Promoting a dementia-aware culture
• Team communication and collaboration
Ongoing Responsibility and Awareness
• Continuous observation and support
• Reporting concerns appropriately
• Supporting compassionate care practices
• Maintaining professional boundaries
Who the Course Is For
This course is suitable for individuals working in healthcare, care services, community support, or environments where they may interact with individuals living with dementia, including:
• Healthcare Assistants
• Nurses and Care Staff
• Residential Care Personnel
• Home Care Support Workers
• Social Care Workers
• Community Support Teams
• Facilities and Reception Staff
• HR and Workplace Wellbeing Personnel
• Supervisors and Team Leaders
• Family carers seeking awareness and understanding
No prior dementia training is required.
Why This Training Is Important
Awareness and Understanding
Dementia can affect communication, memory, behaviour, and daily living activities. Increased awareness supports more compassionate and effective interactions.
Person-Centred Support
Understanding individual needs helps maintain dignity, reduce distress, and improve quality of life for individuals living with dementia.
Workplace Confidence
Training helps staff respond calmly and appropriately when supporting individuals experiencing confusion or behavioural changes.
Compliance and Safeguarding
Organisations supporting vulnerable individuals must ensure staff understand safeguarding responsibilities and appropriate care practices.
Course Objectives
Participants will:
• Understand the basics of dementia and associated conditions
• Recognise cognitive and behavioural changes linked to dementia
• Apply person-centred communication approaches
• Support individuals with dignity and respect
• Identify environmental and behavioural triggers
• Understand safeguarding and reporting responsibilities
• Promote compassionate and supportive workplace practices
Course Format & Delivery
Instructor-led training
Includes:
• Interactive discussion and scenario-based learning
• Practical communication examples
• Workplace and care-setting case studies
• Group participation and awareness exercises
Delivered:
• Onsite at client premises
Duration: 1 Day
The course focuses on practical understanding, awareness, and supportive care approaches rather than clinical diagnosis or medical treatment.
Irish Legislation Supported
This training supports organisational responsibilities under:
• Health Act 2007
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
• HIQA National Standards for Residential Care Settings for Older People in Ireland
• Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015
Irish legislation and care standards require organisations to:
• Protect the dignity and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals
• Ensure staff are appropriately trained and informed
• Promote safeguarding and respectful care practices
• Maintain safe and supportive care environments
Why Choose Samson Training
Samson Training delivers professional workplace and care-sector training focused on practical awareness, communication, and person-centred support.
Our approach emphasises:
• Compassionate and respectful care awareness
• Real workplace and care-setting scenarios
• Clear communication strategies
• Consistent professional instruction
• Practical understanding of behavioural and cognitive changes
We position dementia awareness training as part of a wider commitment to dignity, safeguarding, and quality care practices.
FAQ's
What is dementia awareness training?
Dementia awareness training helps participants understand dementia-related conditions, communication approaches, behavioural changes, and person-centred support practices.
Who should attend this course?
The course is suitable for healthcare workers, carers, support staff, supervisors, and anyone working with or supporting individuals living with dementia.
Is prior healthcare experience required?
No. The course is designed for both experienced personnel and individuals new to dementia awareness training.
Does the course include communication techniques?
Yes. The course includes practical guidance on supporting communication and responding appropriately to individuals experiencing confusion or distress.
Is this course suitable for care homes and healthcare environments?
Yes. The training is relevant for residential care, healthcare, homecare, community services, and workplace support environments.
