On 1 and 7 October, alza professionals Marisa Pacheco and Margarida Gomes Filipe delivered two sessions of the online training course “Dementia Care and Intervention” for professionals from the Regional Network of Integrated Continuing Care (RRCCI), in response to an invitation from the regional network.
The training was attended by 43 professionals, including family doctors, nurses, psychologists, social workers, physiotherapists and sociocultural activity coordinators from the islands of São Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo.
The sessions covered general aspects of dementia, its main symptoms and progression, and the most common types of dementia. They also explored person-centred care strategies, with a particular focus on communication, pain management and promoting restraint-free care.
The training also provided an opportunity to reflect on the challenges posed by dementia in continuing care settings, encouraging approaches tailored to each individual's needs and aimed at promoting their well-being while respecting their dignity and individuality.
We would like to express our gratitude to the Training Division of the Regional Directorate of Health, the Regional Network of Integrated Continuing Care and its Regional Coordination Team for their trust, as well as to Dr Nísia Bettencourt for her guidance and support throughout the process.