Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/dementia-healthcare
Navigating the complexities of dementia care can be a daunting task, but thankfully, resources exist to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills. One such invaluable resource is Coursera’s “Knowledge and Skills for Dementia Care: the SSLD Approach,” developed by Professor Ka Tat Tsang of the University of Toronto’s Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work. This course offers a comprehensive and compassionate perspective on supporting individuals living with dementia.
The course begins with a thorough overview, introducing learners to the continuum of senior services and support. It expertly covers various care settings, from community-based care and in-home support to long-term and institutionalized residential care. The foundational modules lay the groundwork for understanding dementia from the SSLD (Strengths-Based, Solution-Focused, Life-Course Development) perspective, which emphasizes the inherent strengths and potential for growth in every individual.
A particularly insightful section delves into “Functional Recovery and Enhancement.” Here, learners explore the significant role of optimism in dementia care and are introduced to core SSLD concepts like the N3C-6D formulation. The practical application of these principles in daily caregiving is highlighted, along with the crucial concept of “ageing in place” and designing supportive living environments.
The “Applications in Daily Life” module tackles the pervasive issue of ageism, offering strategies to counter discriminatory practices in care settings. It also introduces psychosocial interventions and the innovative Play Intervention for Dementia (PID) application of SSLD. Crucially, this section underscores the importance of caregiver well-being and provides practical self-care strategies, recognizing the demanding nature of dementia caregiving.
Addressing the multifaceted challenges, the “Mental Health, Psychosocial and Behavioural Challenges” module provides guidance on managing responsive behaviors, substance use in older adults, intimacy and consent, elder abuse, and essential legal aspects like capacity and advance care planning. This comprehensive approach ensures learners are prepared for a wide range of scenarios.
Further enriching the learning experience, the course explores “From Attachment, Intimacy, Sexuality to the Lifeworld.” This module sensitively addresses issues of attachment, intimacy, and sexuality in individuals with dementia, while also examining the concept of the ‘Lifeworld’ and the intersections of aging, social exclusion, and LGBTQ+ identities.
The “Holistic Experience and Transcendence (HT)” module focuses on personhood and agency, empowering learners to see individuals with dementia as whole people with unique experiences. It also examines the role of technology in fostering social inclusion.
Finally, the “Organizational Development and Service System Enhancement” module broadens the perspective to the systemic level. It analyzes senior service delivery globally, showcases exemplary organizations, and guides learners on implementing holistic, person-centered care. The course thoughtfully concludes by revisiting strategies to counter ageism from the SSLD viewpoint.
Overall, “Knowledge and Skills for Dementia Care: the SSLD Approach” is an exceptional course for anyone involved in dementia care, whether as a professional, family caregiver, or student. It offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, delivered with empathy and a deep respect for the individuals it aims to support. I highly recommend this course for its comprehensive curriculum and its empowering SSLD framework.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/dementia-healthcare