Dementia Knowledge to Action Program

Participating in the  Dementia Knowledge to Action Program has been one of the most valuable experiences of my professional journey. The training gave me a deeper understanding of dementia and helped me see each person beyond their diagnosis. I’ve learned how to respond with empathy, patience, and confidence in difficult situations — and how to create moments of connection that truly matter. The practical tools and communication techniques I gained have made a real difference in how I support residents living with dementia. I now feel more equipped, more compassionate, and more committed than ever to providing person-centred care.”

The Dementia Knowledge to Action Program was an incredibly valuable learning experience. It not only deepened my understanding of dementia and how to support residents with changed behaviours, but also strengthened my leadership and practical skills. I now feel more confident in driving positive change in my workplace. I highly recommend this course to anyone working in aged care.”

The Dementia Knowledge to Action Program was probably one of the best training experiences I have had.  From start to finish there was so much support and guidance. The Program covered areas that were so true to the day to day life of supporting people living with a dementia diagnosis.  From support in a classroom environment to zoom meetings and online learning there was a bit of everything and also so much more.  I would recommend everyone to do this Program so we are all able to support those living with dementia and those who care and support them. 

My project was Music in the Memory support unit which is something we still do every day in our home and it brings many of our residents together with a shared interest.

I have worked in aged care for over 20 years, spending primarily most of my time working with people with a diagnosis of Dementia. When I was put forward to attend the course, I just was looking for an additional qualification as I thought I was knowledgeable already in this space. Boy, was I wrong. This course opened my eyes, opened my ears, and opened my mind in ways that are indescribable. What I have taken away from the course, I have been able to implement to 1000+ residents across 11 residential homes to improve their wellbeing, their respect, and their individuality. They are no longer seen as their diagnosis but seen for who they are. Thank you, Dementia Training Australia, for such an amazing experience, for all the lessons we learnt from our wonderful trainers and each other (classmates). It was career changing in the best way.

Participating in the Dementia Knowledge to Action Program provided me with the foundational skills to implement effective change management within our Memory Support Unit. As a result, we’ve seen a significant reduction in physical incidents related to changed behaviours. This Program is incredibly valuable for anyone working with the aged population, whether in community or residential aged care. One of the most rewarding aspects was being part of a collective group of passionate individuals, all committed to making a positive impact. The opportunity to share knowledge, collaborate on complex challenges, and receive guidance from experienced mentors made the experience both enriching and empowering.

Dementia Knowledge to Action is an outstanding program for individuals looking to enhance their knowledge of dementia, whether to become a dementia guide within their organizations or to provide better care for those living with dementia. The course is clear, concise, and manageable within the given timeframe. The Program is run by an amazing and knowledgeable team. My mentor, Kerry, was always encouraging, flexible, and supportive, helping me navigate any challenges I faced throughout the course. I highly recommend this Program!

The Dementia Knowledge to Action Program was well designed for enhancing and broadening my understanding of dementia and person-centred care. The course encouraged collaboration and open discussion between multiple disciplines, and I have gained a deeper understanding into the journey of early diagnosis of dementia to end of life and the impact this has on the individual, their family, caregivers, and support networks. I now have a clearer perspective on the importance of communication, education, and the person-centred approach that is so important to maintain in dementia care. I am grateful for the knowledge gained in this course and the way it has improved my own practice and the way I speak and educate others.

The Dementia Knowledge to Action Program is an engaging and highly practical program that goes beyond simply delivering information. Its interactive format, including group discussions and hands-on workshops, allows participants to actively practise and apply the skills learned. One of the most valuable aspects of the Program is the requirement to design and implement a project within our own workplace. This not only reinforces the learning but also provides real-world impact, supported by ongoing mentorship.

I found the experience extremely beneficial, especially in the context of aged care, where applying knowledge in a practical setting is essential. I highly recommend this Program to any health care professional involved in the care of people living with dementia.

Wanting to improve the lives of people living with dementia, when my manager nominated me for the Dementia Knowledge to Action Program, I wanted to support her as she is a great leader and very supportive in our common desire to improve the lives of people with dementia. Through the study project I have developed skills and confidence to enable me to bring about positive change to the lives of people living with dementia and influence the attitudes of staff and families connected to their lives.  Even though the project is completed we continue to experience  further positive change and interest from staff, residents and families connected to them.