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DEM 201: Dementia Awareness
The Level 2 Award in Awareness of Dementia (RQF) includes the unit DEM 201: Dementia Awareness. This unit is essential for those seeking to understand dementia and the ways in which it impacts individuals, their families, and caregivers. The knowledge gained from this unit equips learners with the foundational understanding necessary to provide compassionate, informed, and effective care to those living with dementia.
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological disorders that affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Common types of dementia include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Each type presents differently, but all impact the individual’s cognitive functions and quality of life.
The unit begins by providing an overview of what dementia is, including its types and symptoms. Understanding the different forms of dementia helps care providers identify specific needs and challenges associated with each type. For instance, Alzheimer’s disease often starts with memory problems, while frontotemporal dementia might initially affect behaviour and personality.
Recognising the early signs and symptoms of dementia is critical. Early diagnosis can lead to better management of the condition and allows individuals and their families to make informed decisions about care and support. Symptoms can include memory loss, confusion, difficulties in communication, changes in mood and personality, and difficulties with coordination and motor functions.
DEM 201 also covers the importance of person-centred care. Person-centred care involves tailoring care to the unique preferences, needs, and values of the individual. This approach respects the dignity and autonomy of individuals with dementia and involves them as much as possible in decisions about their care. For example, knowing an individual’s history, interests, and preferences can help care providers create more meaningful and engaging activities that enhance the person’s quality of life.
The unit emphasises the impact of dementia not just on the individual, but also on their families and caregivers. Caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding, and this unit underscores the need for support systems and resources for caregivers. Recognising caregiver stress and providing appropriate respite and support services are important for maintaining the well-being of both caregivers and those with dementia.
Additionally, the unit highlights communication strategies that are effective when working with individuals who have dementia. Techniques such as using simple language, maintaining eye contact, and being patient and empathetic can significantly improve interactions. Understanding and managing behavioural changes, such as agitation or aggression, are also critical aspects of dementia care covered in this unit.
Lastly, the unit addresses the ethical and legal considerations in dementia care. This includes understanding consent, capacity, and the importance of advocating for the rights and dignity of individuals with dementia. Ensuring that individuals with dementia are treated with respect and that their rights are upheld is a fundamental principle of dignified care.
In summary, DEM 201: Dementia Awareness provides a comprehensive introduction to dementia, equipping learners with the knowledge and skills needed to support individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. By understanding the types and symptoms of dementia, adopting a person-centred approach, supporting caregivers, employing effective communication strategies, and considering ethical and legal aspects, care providers can offer compassionate and high-quality care for individuals with dementia.
Units and Answers
1. Understand what dementia is
- 1.1 Explain what is meant by the term ‘dementia’
- 1.2. Describe the key functions of the brain that are affected by dementia
- 1.3 Explain why depression, delirium and age related memory impairment may be mistaken for dementia
- 1.4 Outline key legislation in relation to the support and protection of individuals with dementia
2. Understand key features of the theoretical models of dementia
- 2.1 Outline the medical model of dementia
- 2.2 Outline the social model of dementia
- 2.3 Explain why dementia should be viewed as a disability
3. Know the most common types of dementia and their causes
- 3.1 List the most common causes of dementia
- 3.2 Describe the likely signs and symptoms of the most common causes of dementia
- 3.3 Outline the risk factors for the most common causes of dementia
- 3.4 Identify prevalence rates for different types of dementia
4. Understand factors relating to an individual’s experience of dementia