Dementia Communication
Dementia communication training helps your team communicate confidently and sensitively with people living with dementia. They learn recognised methods and good practice that support dignity, reduce distress and improve wellbeing. Delivered on-site by our experienced trainers.
About the course
Communicate confidently and sensitively with people living with dementia
By the end of the course, delegates will:
- Recognise the person behind the diagnosis, using their history and preferences to guide communication
- Use short, simple language and allow time to process and respond
- Apply recognised communication frameworks — VERA, SPECAL and Validation Therapy
- Check hearing and vision before attributing a difficulty to dementia alone
- Approach people calmly, from the front, at eye level, and introduce themselves by name
- Avoid arguing, correcting or talking over the person, to protect the relationship
- Maintain consistent staff, routines and handover to keep communication approaches aligned
- Involve the person and their family in decisions about their own care
What you’ll cover
Full course content
Everything the course covers, exactly as our trainers deliver it:
Understanding dementia and communication
- Why communication matters
- How dementia affects communication
- Key points
Aspects of CAIT training
- What is CAIT?
- What CAIT aims to achieve
- The two CAIT sessions
- Practice point
Verbal communication
- Common verbal changes
- Good practice
- Key points
Non-verbal communication
- Why it matters
- Good practice
- Key points
Communication methods I — validation, SPECAL and VERA
- Validation Therapy
- The SPECAL method
- The VERA framework
- Practice point
Communication methods II — positive approach, life story and reminiscence
- Positive Approach to Care
- Life story work
- Reminiscence
Supporting sensory difficulties
- Hearing
- Vision
- Key points
Interacting with people living with dementia
- Person-centred principles
- The VIPS model
Other good practice
- Environment
- Things to avoid
- Consistency and teamwork
Keep exploring
Related neurological courses
These subjects sit naturally alongside this course — and we can combine courses into one visit.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Where is the training delivered?
All of our training is delivered on-site at your service, anywhere in the UK — we come to you, so there are no travel costs or venue hire for your team.
How long is the Dementia Communication course?
It runs as a half day – 3 hours course, delivered in one visit unless stated otherwise.
How many delegates can attend?
Up to 15 delegates per session.
Do delegates receive a certificate?
Yes — every delegate receives a certificate on completion. Certificates are valid for 1 year, so plan refresher training before they expire.
How much does the course cost?
We price every course on application, based on your dates, location and delegate numbers. Use the contact buttons below — we reply quickly with a quote.
Can we combine courses into one visit?
Yes. Many clients build a full training day from shorter courses, and we can deliver several subjects in one visit — just tell us what your team needs.
Do you only train care providers?
No. This course suits care & nursing homes, home care & domiciliary, supported living, day services, hospices. If your sector isn’t listed, ask — we’ll tailor the course to your setting.
Book this course
We bring Dementia Communication training to your service
Delivered on-site at your service, nationwide, with pricing on application. Tell us your dates and delegate numbers and we’ll reply quickly with a quote.
Part of our neurological training range. Also explore behaviour management training and mental health training.