Course Overview

This course will be delivered online over 22 weeks.

The Level 3 Certificate in Understanding the Principles of Dementia Care enables learners to develop knowledge and understanding of caring for individuals with dementia. This qualification will also support progression into relevant employment within the health and social care sector.

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

UNIT 1 – Understanding dementia

• Section 1- Understand common types, causes and effects of dementia
• Section 2 – Understand the importance of early diagnosis of dementia
• Section 3 – Understand the effects and experience of dementia

UNIT 2 – Understand how person-centred approaches are used to underpin the care and support of individuals with dementia

• Section 1 – Understand person-centred approaches in dementia care and support
• Section 2 – Understand how each individual’s experience of dementia is unique
• Section 3 – Understand how to promote person-centred values for individuals with dementia
• Section 4 – Understand how the nutritional needs of individuals with dementia should be met

UNIT 3 – Principles of communication and interaction in dementia care and support

• Section 1 – Understand that individuals with dementia may communicate in different ways
• Section 2 – Understand the range of factors that influence interactions and communication with individuals with dementia
• Section 3 – Understand how communication and positive interactions are effective in the care and support of individuals with dementia

UNIT 4 – Support positive interaction, occupation and activity in dementia care

• Section 1 – Understand the range and benefits of positive interaction and different approaches for individuals with dementia
• Section 2 – Understand how to engage individuals with dementia in positive interaction, activity and occupation
• Section 3 – Understand how to engage with individuals with dementia to promote identity and inclusion

UNIT 5 – Principles of equality, diversity and inclusion in dementia care and support

• Section 1 – Understand the principles of equality and diversity within the context of dementia care and support
• Section 2 – Understand how to recognise and challenge discrimination and oppressive practices

UNIT 6 – Understand how to support individuals with dementia to exercise choice and rights

• Section 1 – Understand how the rights of individuals are protected
• Section 2 – Understand how to support individuals with dementia to exercise choice and make decisions
• Section 3 – Understand how to involve carers and others in supporting individuals with dementia
• Section 4 – Understand how to enable individuals with dementia to exercise their rights and choices

UNIT 7 – Principles of the administration of medication and wellbeing of individuals with dementia

• Section 1 – Understand common medication that may be used for individuals with dementia
• Section 2 – Understand how to support individuals with dementia through the appropriate and effective use of medication

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.