Dementia Support Skill Set

Overview

The Dementia Support Skill Set is designed for aged care workers who provide direct care and support to people living with dementia across home and residential settings. The training focuses on understanding dementia, responding appropriately to cognitive and behavioural changes, and delivering person-centred care that promotes dignity, safety, and wellbeing.

This skill set supports both everyday dementia support practices and more complex situations requiring enhanced communication, behaviour support, and risk management strategies.

Learning Outcomes

Workers who complete this skill set will learn how to:

• Provide person-centred support to people living with dementia across varied care environments

• Recognise signs and progression of dementia and understand their impact on behaviour, communication, and daily functioning

• Apply effective communication strategies that reduce distress and promote engagement

• Respond safely and appropriately to behaviours of concern using evidence-based approaches

• Support independence, choice, and dignity while maintaining safety

• Conduct risk assessments in client homes and residential care settings, considering cognitive impairment

• Work in accordance with care plans, organisational policies, and relevant aged care standards