Putting knowledge into practice
Kurri Kurri Masonic Village welcomed Cessnock students studying Certificate III in Individual Support 鈥� Ageing to run a 鈥楬igh Tea鈥� for residents in the Memory Support Unit.
In creating the event students worked hard to deliver activities that would create social connections, a sense of purpose, improved physical wellbeing and trigger pleasant memories for people living with dementia.
With a sing-along, dancing, a quiz and games as well as opportunities for the residents to meet and share with students. The meaningful engagement with the residents gave students the opportunity to practice using the machinery, and the communication skills and person-centred approach vital when providing effective support for dementia patients, putting their knowledge into practice.
鈥淚 was able to use the validation method to connect with her 鈥� I could settle and engage with her as she built up the confidence to join in the singing.鈥�
鈥淚 couldn鈥檛 believe how so many different people could come together and have such a great time, once we started the singing one of the residents knew the words almost immediately鈥�
鈥淚 feel that I get it now about how to use these methods of communication. I kept talking to him and reassuring him and we had fun and danced together鈥�
