Dementia and Learning Disabilities

Aim                                

A course to introduce participants to the basic concepts and ideas important in working with people with learning disabilities that may also have dementia. To give participants the tools to work more confidently and effectively with people with dementia and learning disabilities.

Target Group

Anyone who works with people with learning disabilities and/or dementia

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course participants will be able to:

• Identify the causes of a learning disability
• Describe the main features of dementia
• Identify the different types of dementia
• Recognise the risk factors for the development of dementia in people with learning disabilities
• Describe the presentation of dementia in people with Down Syndrome/Learning Disabilities
• Describe the importance of person-centred care in working with people with dementia and learning disabilities
• Identify ways of supporting people with learning disabilities and dementia
• Be aware of the government’s “Living well with dementia” strategy and the Dignity in Care principles 
• Know where to go for further support and information 

Training Methods

The day will be run in a participative way, using delegates’ existing knowledge as a platform. Training methods will include paired work, small group work, quizzes, case studies, and a limited amount of lecturing.