Dementia 2: Supporting Connection, Communication and Engagement in Dementia Care (SQS)

Welcome to the "Dementia 2: Supporting Connection, Communication and Engagement in Dementia Care" online course. This online course focuses on how aged care workers can build meaningful relationships and effectively communicate with people living with dementia. Learners will explore how dementia affects communication and behaviour, and develop practical skills in active listening, validation, de-escalation and dementia-friendly communication approaches. The course also strengthens learners' ability to partner with families and carers, support shared decision-making, recognise carer stress, and promote culturally safe and inclusive engagement. This course contains 3 modules: (SQS-DM3PC) Partnerships and Connections (SQS-DM4CE) Communication and Engagement (SQS-DM34AS) Final Assessment Objectives Module 1 of 3: Partnerships and Connections After completing this module, it is expected that learners will be better able to... Partner with the person living with dementia and their family or carers to support a positive enabling environment Support shared decision-making and respect the person’s rights, privacy and choices Notice signs of carer stress and escalate concerns using your workplace process Support culturally safe and inclusive connections (including support for people from diverse backgrounds) Use simple communication skills that put connection before tasks Module 2 of 3: Communication and Engagement After completing this module, it is expected that learners will be better able to... Explain how dementia can affect communication, how communication needs can change over time and in different environments, and the importance of interpreting behaviour as a form of communication Use dementia-friendly, person-centred verbal and non-verbal communication approaches, adapted to individual needs and situations, to support dignity, engagement, understanding and cultural safety Apply active listening skills, validation techniques and de-escalation strategies to reduce distress and support cooperation List modifications to the environment, aids and supports that can reduce communication barriers and support engagement Document individual communication needs and effective support strategies objectively promptly to support continuity of care Module 3 of 3: Final Assessment Test your understanding of the modules to complete the course. Course code: SQS-DM2