March 13, 2015

Enhanced Caregiver Series:

WCA Collaborates with Western University and Behavioural Supports Ontario with the Support of McCormick Care Foundation

Description:

The WCA, Behavioural Supports Ontario and Western University, with the support of McCormick Care Foundation, are conducting a pilot project to develop an enhanced education series for caregivers of people with dementia. The results from this study will help inform new techniques and approaches for dementia care providers at home, including ways to engage their loved one in meaningful activity to minimize or redirect responsive behaviours, such as aggression, wandering, physical resistance and agitation.

Purpose:

As part of the WCA’s goal to be a leader in innovative dementia care by 2022, exploring new ways to provide care and support is an integral part of this effort. This exploration involves collaborating in research activity and working with our community partners to discover how we can enhance the lives of those living with a dementia diagnosis.

Process:

A total of 32 caregivers of day program clients at Alzheimer Outreach Services will undergo six sessions involving speech language pathology, social work, gerontology, occupational therapy and therapeutic recreation. These sessions will be based on interactive modules using real-life simulations.

Timing and Location:

The enhanced education sessions begins in March 2015 at Alzheimer Outreach Services. The full study is expected to be completed by the fall of 2015.

If you have any questions, please contact Steve Crawford, CEO, WCA, at 432-2648 ext. 2319, or by e-mail at scrawford@mccormickcare.ca