Environment is key when it comes to caring for someone living with a dementia and all would agree that a hospital environment is not the most familiar, relaxing or positively stimulating environment for any individual.

It is estimated that approximately 25% of beds in hospitals are occupied by people living with dementia. Their length of stay is often longer than for people without dementia and there can also be delays in supporting them to leave the hospital. (Alzheimers Research UK).

When living with a diagnosis of dementia the world can be a frightening place, more so when the environment is unfamiliar and confusing.

In this two-day experiential learning workshop, hospital staff will be taken through theory and exercises designed to better understand communication approaches that work in creating connection and reducing anxiety and fear.

All behaviour is meaningful and learners will learn how to discover the unmet needs that culminate in distressed behaviour. They will gain confidence in trying approaches and working creatively as a team to meet those needs resulting in less distressed behaviour and better quality of life for their patients whilst in hospital.

Understand what dementia is and how it affects individuals

Have the skills to reduce incidences of distressed behaviour

Have confidence in trying out different communication techniques

Know how to de-escalate a situation where someone is in distress

How to assess the unmet needs of someone living with dementia

Be confident in trying out creative solutions to unmet needs

Understand the importance of meaningful activities

Recognise and celebrate moments of well-being