Advanced training for teams supporting older adults and people living with dementia
A four‑day, in‑depth programme for teams supporting individuals who may experience medium to high levels of distress — including people living with dementia, older adults with complex health needs, and those who may present with significant confusion, fear, unmet needs or heightened distress responses.
This course builds on everything covered in the two‑day Foundation programme, offering a deeper exploration of trauma‑informed, person‑centred practice and safe, ethical restraint‑reduction approaches. Staff spend time understanding the wider context of restraint reduction, including the principles of the Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and how culture, environment and power dynamics can shape a person’s experience — particularly in dementia and older adult care.
What the course covers
- Neurocognitive disorders - understanding disorders that change memory, reasoning, communication or behaviour.
- Advanced de-escalation and personalised support strategies -practical, compassionate approaches for responding to high levels of distress or confusion.
- Non verbal communication, sensory regulation and adapting environments.
- Understanding the risks associated with physical restraint including positional asphyxia, trauma impact and the specific vulnerabilities of older adults.
- Exploring psychological restraint, power dynamics and institutional culture -helping teams recognise subtle forms of restriction and promote dignity and autonomy.
- Ethical physical release, support and safe physical intervention techniques - biomechanically and psychologically tested and aligned with Bild Act against RRN standards.
- Reflective practice to help staff feel safe and supported - strengthening safer cultures and reducing burnout.
- Relevant legislation including reasonable force and the legal framework around restrictive practices.
Best suited for:
- Dementia and older‑adult services
- High‑complexity residential or nursing care
- Mental health and crisis‑response teams supporting older adults
- Specialist learning‑disability and autism services with ageing populations
- Providers supporting individuals with significant cognitive, sensory or communication needs
- Organisations wanting consistent, safe, trauma‑informed practice across multiple sites
Delivered to up to 12 participants with two trainers. An annual one‑day refresher keeps skills aligned with Bild Act and RRN standards.