Holding Connection: Working Alongside People Living with Dementia (Mate Wareware)

This workshop builds understanding of dementia and equips participants with practical strategies to support wellbeing, reduce frustration, and strengthen relationships in their work.

Description

Aim

The aim of this dementia workshop is to build understanding, confidence, and practical skills when supporting people living with dementia. Participants will learn what dementia is, how it affects individuals, and why behaviours may change. The workshop provides evidence-based strategies to improve communication, reduce distress, and foster meaningful connections, helping participants feel more capable, compassionate, and effective in their roles.

Overview

Dementia affects one in ten people over the age of 75. If you regularly interact with people in this age group, it is vital to understand what a person living with dementia is experiencing and how it impacts their daily life. This workshop will cover what exactly dementia is, now it effects the brain, what are the symptoms and challenges, social impacts and emotional processing. Once the attendees understand why someone with dementia is showing the symptoms they are they will build a practical “toolbelt” of proven strategies, along with the critical insight into why these approaches are effective. The strategies will build connection, support wellbeing, reduce frustration, and make your work easier while strengthening relationships with clients. These strategies will be tailored to your specific role, ensuring they are practical, relevant, and directly applicable to your work.

Learning Intentions

  • Define what dementia is, symptoms, challenges, social impacts and the stigma associated with dementia

  • Comprehend the impact of dementia in Aotearoa (especially on Māori) and globally

  • Understand the basic neurology of the brain and how dementia impacts this

  • Identify unmet needs and understand Thomas Kitwoods person centered-care

  • Understand common challenges like personal cares, sundowning and depth perception

  • Have a “tool” belt of proven strategies for engagement

Who Should Attend

This workshop is designed for anyone who works with, supports, or regularly engages with people living with dementia or adults aged over 75. It is suitable for professionals, caregivers, volunteers, and community members who may encounter people with dementia as part of their role.

Keeping it Real | Kia Pono te Tika

1. Working alongside tāngata whaiora

2. Working alongside tāngata whenua

3. Working alongside whānau

4. Working within communities

7. Maintaining learning and kamahi wellbeing

Facilitated by Bernie McCarthy

PGDipDementiaCare

Bernie McCarthy has worked with people living with dementia for twenty years and is a passionate advocate for improving the lives of older people and those living with dementia. With a strong focus on education, understanding of the dementia experience, community connection, and person-centred care. Bernie works to support organisations, families, and professionals to better understand the dementia experience and create environments where people can thrive.

Bernie holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Dementia Care and is currently undertaking a master’s program in Dementia Care. Bernie has been involved in developing education programmes aimed at anyone that has contact with those living with dementia including clinical staff, non-clinical staff, caregivers whanau, diversional therapists.

Bernie also supports people living with dementia through therapeutic massage and movement to promote relaxation and wellbeing. By combining research-based knowledge with daily hands-on experience, Bernie has developed a practical and compassionate skill set to support people living with dementia and those who care for them.

 

Workshop Type: Introductory | Workshop Level: Five | Catering: Refreshments and light lunch provided 

Terms and Conditions

  • Cancellations made up to 10 working days before a workshop will incur a $39 service fee.

  • Cancellations (or non-attendance) made 10 working days or less will not be refunded and the full workshop fee will be charged. 

  • No fee applies if you are able to find a replacement participant.

  • MHERC reserves the right to cancel a workshop at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or insufficient registrations.

  • Only one person may view a webinar session per registration.

Please read our full Terms and Conditions before registering.