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Authors and presenter*
Authors and presenter*
Emma Lea, Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, CoHM*
Kathleen Doherty, Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, CoHM
Helga Merl, Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, CoHM
Abstract
Abstract
Dementia is a recognised global public health issue. Postgraduate dementia education aims to enhance dementia knowledge, support agency to change policies and systems, and improve evidence-based practice. This Lightning presentation considers a study investigating why students undertake a postgraduate course on dementia comprising policy, public health, prevention, care and support, and neurobiology, and the impact of the course on their practice. Across three semesters of 2023-2024, students were recruited who were studying the Wicking Dementia Centre's online postgraduate courses on dementia: Graduate Certificate in Dementia, Graduate Diploma of Dementia, and Master of Dementia. They were invited to complete an anonymous online survey collecting quantitative and qualitative data about dementia knowledge and its application to dementia practices, leadership and policies. Forty-five students completed the survey. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of responses to open-ended questions. Three key themes were identified from qualitative data on how the course influences practice: using an evidence base to support practice, developing confidence and strategies to educate others (e.g., colleagues, family members), and building skills to better support people living with dementia (e.g., communication strategies, changed behaviours). Findings suggest that knowledge from the course is frequently used to influence practice: especially to change aspects of their own practice and to inform and educate others. This translation of knowledge into practice needs to be complemented by support from workplaces and professional organisations, and the University’s role in facilitating this should be explored further. This presentation considers key attributes of the dementia courses which facilitate application to practice.
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