Course Overview

The duration of this course is 11-13 weeks.

The certificate aims to assist learners to develop their knowledge and understanding of the principles of caring for those with dementia. It covers areas such as issues around the use of medication for those with dementia and the importance of providing appropriate activities.

The qualification can be used to support the underpinning knowledge and understanding needed for those working in or towards a dementia care role.

As part of the course you will study seven mandatory units:

Unit 1 – Dementia awareness

• Section 1 Understand what dementia is
• Section 2 Understand key features of the theoretical models of dementia
• Section 3 Know the most common types of dementia and their causes
• Section 4 Understand factors relating to an individual’s experience of dementia

Unit 2 – The person-centred approach to the care and support of individuals with dementia

• Section 1 Understand approaches that enable individuals with dementia to experience well-being
• Section 2 Understand the role of carers in the care and support of individuals with dementia
• Section 3 Understand the roles of others in the support of individuals with dementia

Unit 3 – Understanding the factors that can influence communication and interaction with individuals who have dementia

• Section 1 Understand the factors that can influence communication with individuals who have dementia
• Section 2 Understand how a person-centred approach may be used to encourage positive communication with individuals with dementia
• Section 3 Understand the factors which can affect interactions with individuals with dementia

Unit 4 – Understanding equality, diversity and inclusion in dementia care

• Section 1 Understand the importance of diversity of individuals with dementia
• Section 2 Understand the importance of person-centred approaches in the care and support of individuals with dementia
• Section 3 Understand ways of working with a range of individuals who have dementia to ensure diverse needs are met

Unit 5 – Understanding the administration of medication to individuals with dementia using a person-centred approach

• Section 1 Understand the common medications available to and appropriate for, individuals with dementia
• Section 2 Understand how to provide person-centred care to individuals with dementia through the appropriate and effective use of medication

Unit 6 – Understanding behaviour in the context of dementia

• Section 1 Understand that behaviour is often used as a means of communication
• Section 2 Understand how to respond to behaviour sassociated with dementia
• Section 3 Understand why some people with dementia will need additional emotional support

Unit 7 – Understanding the benefits of engaging in activities in social care

• Section 1 Understand the impact of activity on physical and mental well-being
• Section 2 Understand the social benefits of activities
• Section 3 Understand how activity can be the basis for a model of care and support

Assessment Methods

Assessments are due at the end of each unit. Your tutor will assess your work and build up your portfolio of evidence of learning. A certificate will be awarded on satisfactory submission of evidence of learning for the units studied.