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Here’s the thing: dementia care isn’t just about assisting with daily tasks. It’s about understanding the person, their experience, and how to support them in a way that maintains their dignity and independence. To do this effectively, proper training is absolutely essential. That’s where qualifications like the Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Dementia Care come in.
What is Dementia? (Beyond the Basics)
Dementia isn’t a single disease. It’s a term for a group of symptoms caused by different conditions affecting the brain. The most common types include:
- Alzheimer’s Disease – Accounts for 60-70% of cases. Starts with memory loss and gradually affects reasoning, speech, and physical ability.
- Vascular Dementia – The second most common type, caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. It can lead to sudden changes in thinking and movement.
- Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) – Includes hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and Parkinson’s-like symptoms. Often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.
- Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) – More common in younger people (under 65), affecting behavior and personality before memory.
The Shocking Reality of Dementia Care Today
- 1 in 3 people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime (alzheimers.org.uk).
- 70% of people in care homes have dementia—yet many care workers don’t receive specialist training.
- Unpaid carers (usually family members) provide the equivalent of £13.9 billion worth of care every year in the UK.
These numbers show why proper dementia training is no longer optional it’s a necessity.
What Proper Dementia Care Should Look Like
According to Dementia UK, person-centred care is the gold standard. This means:
- Treating the person, not just the condition – They are more than their diagnosis. Their life story, habits, and preferences still matter.
- Encouraging independence – Instead of just doing everything for them, we support them to do as much as possible for themselves.
- Good communication – Many people with dementia struggle to find words, so we need to adapt—use short sentences, avoid rushing them, and be patient.
- Creating a dementia-friendly environment – Simple changes, like clear signage, good lighting, and contrasting colours, can make life much easier for someone with dementia.
How the Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Dementia Care Helps
This is where training makes all the difference. The Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Dementia Care is designed to equip care professionals with the right knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality, compassionate care.
1. Understanding Dementia and Its Effects
Gain an in-depth understanding of the science behind dementia and how different types affect the brain and how progression varies from person to person.
2. Person-Centred Approaches to Care
Learn how to tailor care to each individual, focusing on dignity, independence, and personal preferences.
3. Communication and Interaction Strategies
Not being able to communicate properly can be frustrating for both carers and those living with dementia. This module teaches verbal and non-verbal communication techniques to make interactions smoother.
4. Medication and Health Considerations
Understand how medications work, their side effects, and safe handling, ensuring individuals receive the best possible treatment.
4. Safeguarding and Ethical Responsibilities
Covers legal and ethical frameworks, ensuring you can protect vulnerable individuals and maintain professional care standards.
Who Should Take This Course?
- Care home staff who want to develop specialist dementia skills.
- Domiciliary care professionals supporting individuals in their own homes.
- Healthcare assistants and support workers looking to enhance their careers.
- Family caregivers who want to understand dementia better and improve the care they provide.
Dementia Care is Changing – Are You Ready?
Dementia cases are rising fast, and quality training is the only way to keep up. A well-trained care professional can make all the difference in someone’s life, helping them feel safe, respected, and valued, even as they face a challenging condition.
If you work in care (or want to), investing in a specialist dementia qualification isn’t just good for your career—it’s good for the people you support.
Looking to build the expertise and confidence needed to deliver outstanding dementia care? AccessSkills is here to help you achieve that goal.
“Dementia may take away memories, but it does not take away identity. Person-centered care helps preserve dignity, respect, and individuality.”
