Education
Caring for someone living with dementia can be both challenging and emotionally demanding, whether you are a family member or a professional caregiver. At Memory Box, our director, Bernie McCarthy, brings over 20 years of hands-on experience and specialized training, including a postgraduate certificate in dementia care. We offer in-facility education programs and family workshops, providing practical knowledge, compassionate understanding, and proven strategies to support those caring for individuals with dementia.
Family Education Workshops
Having a loved one living with dementia can be both emotionally challenging and confusing, often making visits difficult and communication challenging. These workshops are designed to help family and friends gain a clearer understanding of what dementia is, how it affects their loved one, and why certain symptoms emerge. They will learn practical strategies to improve communication and meaningful engagement, making each visit more rewarding. The workshop will also cover how someone living with dementia processes emotions, why they may seem distressed, and how this can manage this. We will also explore why they may become overly focused on one thing and repeatedly return to it. By the end, participants will leave with a deeper understanding and greater confidence, equipped to better connect with their loved ones.
Clinical Staff Training
Working in a memory care unit can be highly demanding, with carers and nurses often facing significant challenges that can lead to high turnover. This training program is designed to empower carers with the latest dementia research, providing a deep understanding of the symptoms residents may display and the reasons behind them. Participants will gain a practical “toolbelt” of proven strategies, along with the critical insight into why these approaches are effective. The participants will be introduced to Thomas Kitwoods framework for person-centred care and understand in practicle terms how this can be used everyday. The training encourages carers to adopt a curious mindset, helping them identify and address the underlying needs behind a resident’s behavior and what the resident may be trying to communicate. Key topics include managing personal care, showering, toileting, wandering, sleep, and eating – all common areas of difficulty. Staff will also learn about emotional processing in dementia, why residents often appear distressed, and effective ways to offer compassionate support.
memorybox.co.nz 