Dementia Training in care homes - an overview of the research.
The most effective training for staff in dementia care involves a multifaceted approach that includes person-centred care, enhancing staff competencies, improving knowledge and attitudes, and addressing the complex needs of individuals with dementia. Research has shown that person-centred dementia care training programs can significantly improve staff attitudes, role efficacy, and perceptions of caring for individuals with dementia Surr et al. (2016). These programs focus on enhancing staff understanding of the challenging behaviours of people with dementia, thereby increasing their sense of competence in dementia care (Chan et al., 2020). Incorporating interpersonal and moral competencies alongside technical and intellectual competencies in staff development and dementia care training has been recommended to improve staff attitudes and awareness of evidence-based guidelines for dementia care (Scerri et al., 2020).
Effective dementia training should also aim to enhance staff knowledge and awareness regarding patients with dementia and their care, ultimately improving staff attitudes towards dementia in care settings (McKenna et al., 2023). Furthermore, training programs that focus on improving staff knowledge, education, and skills have been found to be beneficial in reducing depression and behavioural problems in residents with dementia (Hobday et al., 2010; Goyder et al., 2012). Implementing microlearning in nursing homes has been highlighted as a critical strategy to enhance staff knowledge and skills required for person-centred dementia care (Inker et al., 2020).
Additionally, training staff to understand and manage Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) is essential for improving the quality of life for residents with dementia (Oliveira & Sousa, 2020). Programs like Validation Therapy-Training have been identified as valuable for staff in residential care facilities to enhance their understanding and management of BPSD (Oliveira & Sousa, 2020). Moreover, comprehensive, dementia-specific training programs like STAR have been effective in improving care and reducing affective and behavioural problems in residents with dementia (Teri et al., 2010).
In summary various studies have highlighted the importance of specialized training programs in improving dementia care. For instance, Parveen et al. (2021) emphasized the necessity of tier 2 and tier 3 training to cultivate a dementia care workforce with positive attitudes and confidence. Additionally, Teri et al. (2010) discussed the STAR training program as a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing care and reducing affective and behavioural issues in residents with dementia. Surr et al. (2016) evaluated a specialist training program for acute hospital staff, showing improvements in attitudes, satisfaction, and feelings of caring efficacy towards individuals with dementia. Almutairi et al. (2021) found that an online training program increased direct care staff's awareness and knowledge of responsive behaviours associated with dementia. Moreover, Oliveira & Sousa (2020) introduced a pilot-validation therapy training program for staff in residential care facilities. Gould & Reed (2009) discussed various training modalities, including workshops, seminars, videos, and online modules, to enhance care for individuals with dementia. Duarte et al. (2023) analysed the impact of a dementia training course on staff satisfaction, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour changes in a specialized centre for people with dementia. Lastly, Fleming & Fitzgerald (2009) highlighted national programs in Australia focusing on research, education, and training to improve dementia care skills for aged care workers.
