A specialised training course aimed at improving communication with people living with dementia was delivered last week in Powys, thanks to a partnership between local providers and the county council.

Silver Assist Homecare hosted two sessions of the Dementia Interpreters training, one held in Bwlch and the other in Llangasty, run in collaboration with Powys County Council.

The course, delivered under the framework of Training2Care UK Ltd and the Dementia Interpreter initiative, gives participants experiential insight into the “language of dementia” and helps those working with or caring for people with dementia to recognise how behaviours, actions and body language may be communication in disguise.

“The course allows you to step into the shoes of someone living with dementia – it’s a powerful experience that changes how you look at communication,” said the training provider’s information.

Both sessions were well attended and received very positive feedback from delegates. Attendees appreciated the practical, empathy-building aspects of the training and the relevance for local community care services.

The training was further supported by Dementia Matters in Powys, a charity dedicated to creating a dementia-friendly county, empowering people living with dementia and their families to connect, thrive and remain included.

Dementia Matters in Powys offers a wide range of community-based support including “Meeting Centres” for people with dementia and their carers, peer support groups, digital connections, befriending services and more.

“We’re proud to partner with Dementia Matters and the council to bring this training to our local area,” said Sam Evans, Manager of Silver Assist. “Better communication means better quality of life for people living with dementia, and stronger partnerships across care services benefit the whole community.”

Silver Assist Homecare continues to work closely with Dementia Matters in Powys each month through their dementia café and information hub initiative, further strengthening local support and awareness.

Looking ahead, Silver Assist and its partners hope to host additional training sessions, helping more health and social-care professionals, carers and families to better understand and respond to the communication needs of people living with dementia.

For more information about upcoming training or support services please contact Silver Assist Homecare on 0333 188 7787 or email: [email protected]