Optimising Movement and Engagement with people living with dementia
Dementia affects far more than memory. It can influence movement, communication, perception, function, participation and a person's ability to engage in everyday activities. As dementia prevalence continues to rise, health and aged care professionals need practical skills to support people living with dementia to remain active, independent and engaged for as long as possible.
This interactive workshop explores how dementia affects the brain, movement, function and communication, and how these changes influence participation in daily life. Participants will examine the principles of person-centred care, understand the importance of meaningful engagement, and learn strategies to optimise mobility, communication and wellbeing.
Through case studies, discussion and practical examples, participants will gain confidence in adapting their approach to support people living with dementia across hospital, community and residential care settings. The workshop emphasises maintaining abilities, promoting independence, and recognising the unique strengths, preferences and experiences of each individual.
Participants will leave with:
• A broader understanding of dementia and its impact beyond memory.
• Practical communication strategies to foster connection and participation.
• Greater confidence in applying person-centred care principles.
• Approaches to support safe movement, mobility and rehabilitation.
• Strategies to encourage meaningful engagement and maintain independence.
• Tools to adapt care, environments and activities to individual needs and abilities.
By focusing on what remains possible, rather than what has been lost, participants will be better equipped to support people living with dementia to live well, engage meaningfully and maintain quality of life.
Learning outcomes
- Recognise the diverse ways dementia affects the brain, behaviour, communication, movement and function.
- Apply person-centred principles to support the rights, dignity and personhood of people living with dementia
- Identify interactions that promote wellbeing and avoid practices that may undermine personhood
- Adapt communication approaches to meet the needs of people living with dementia
- Support participation, independence and meaningful engagement through tailored strategies, while balancing autonomy, wellbeing and risk