Communicating with Persons with Cognitive Loss/Dementia

Workshop Description

3-hour interactive virtual session

This three-hour session introduces PSWs to the communication skills useful in connecting with clients with impaired cognition. We’ll examine the role of daily rhythms and of significant issues/people in the client’s life. It introduces the concept of parsing,  a method of problem-solving that involves processing communication and client actions to more fully appreciate their significance and possible meanings, and to form positive support approaches.  A final section discusses the role of information and approach sharing to promote continuity of positive support. 

This workshop will help your staff: 

• recognize how communication changes as a person’s cognitive abilities decline 
• understand the importance of a client’s life story and key relationships in shaping care 
• connect lifelong routines to daily support, and appreciate why routine matters 
• use parsing techniques to better interpret and respond to client communication 
• apply interpretative communication strategies to build connection and identify effective support approaches 

Who Should Attend

Enhanced workshops are intended for PSWs who have some foundational knowledge, through prior training or on-the-job experience, and some familiarity with the client population. While not suited for those who are brand new to the role, there is some flexibility to accommodate learners at different levels of experience or expertise.