Fleming College

Is This for You?

These courses are tailored to professionals in the health or social service field such as Nurses, Social Service Workers, Health Care Aides and Personal Support Workers, and family support workers who wish to increase their skills and knowledge to support patients with dementia.

Highlights

The number of Canadians living with Dementia is expected to more than double within a generation, increasing the need for qualified care givers. The courses in this specialization will provide you with the skills to provide meaningful experiences and interactions when working with clients and families impacted by dementia. Build on your skills and develop new competencies that will promote the highest quality of life possible for the dementia client and their families.

Courses in Working With Dementia Clients (Online)

Details and registration below

Mandatory

• Dementia: Healthy Adult Aging (HLTH236)
• Overview of Dementia Care (HLTH237)
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Dementia Care (HLTH241)
• Dementia: Working with Dementia Clients in the Field (NRSG039)
• Ethics and Legalities in Dementia Care (HLTH362)

Mandatory

Dementia: Healthy Adult Aging

HLTH236

Examine the normal physiological, psychological, social and spiritual changes affecting aging adults using the Holistic Approach to wellness. Normal physiological and anatomical changes, the dysfunctional effects of common health problems and cognitive decline will be examined. Additional topics include spirituality, changing requirements for physical activity, and health promotion measures. Learn common medical terminology and charting techniques related to aging clients.

Overview of Dementia Care

HLTH237

Providing a holistic model of care for dementia clients is the philosophy used in this introductory course. You will explore differences between normal aging and dementia, and learn about the assessment and diagnosis of this disease. Appropriate physical and emotional environment, effects of dementia on clients, caregiver and the family unit are discussed. The role of research and the importance of public and professional education are also discussed.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Dementia Care

HLTH241

Specific communication skills are required throughout the progressive stages of dementia. Dementia-specific approaches to communication, problem solving and cueing are reviewed. Working in teams, with families, and interagency partners to effect change and ensure quality programming for dementia clients are explored.

Dementia: Working with Dementia Clients in the Field

NRSG039

In this 60 hour field placement you will gain exposure to agencies, organizations, and staff currently providing care to dementia clients in order to increase competency and skill in care for those clients. Our Field Placement Advisor will support you in making your selection and engaging in learning activities. Prerequisites: HLTH237, HLTH241, NRSG039, HLTH362

Ethics and Legalities in Dementia Care

HLTH362

An understanding of the ethics and legalities pertinent to dementia clients is essential in order to protect their rights and advocate for them. Principles of advocacy and lobbying to affect change in the healthcare environment are emphasized. Learn how to access community supports/resources and manoeuver through the system in which the client, family and caregivers are involved. Evaluate services, identify gaps and create strategies to address these gaps.