A new free continence-care training course for carers has been launched by the National Ageing Research Institute.
The course is aimed at improving the quality of care for people living with dementia who experience difficulties with continence.
Many people living with dementia experience difficulties with bladder or bowel function and control, and these issues significantly impact the quality of life for both the individual and their carer.
Developed with the input of those living with dementia, carers and health professionals, NARI's Caregiving, Dementia and Incontinence will deliver free online training for both family carers and community carers.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 70 per cent of aged care residents living with dementia will experience incontinence, of whom 90 per cent require assistance to manage the condition.
The negative impacts of incontinence can drastically affect the quality of life of older people, increasing risk of falls and the development of painful dermatitis.
While the harmful effects of incontinence on older people and those with dementia is known, NARI Director of Aged Care Research, Professor Joan Ostaszkiewicz, said there has not been enough comprehensive training available to carers.
"People with dementia who experience incontinence deserve care that treats them with dignity and respect, and that requires having supports available to inform carers," Professor Ostaszkiewicz said.
Lived experience
"It was incredibly important to us that this training was created with, and informed by, those with lived-experience of the issue. By having their experiences at the centre of this course, we can provide training that ensures wrap-around approach - not just dealing with the physical difficulties, but also the psychological aspect."
No prior experience or qualifications is required of participants who will be offered knowledge, skills and resources to cope with the multi-faceted aspects of assisting with toileting, promoting continence, and managing incontinence.
"Training is not always accessible to carers, so by making this course available freely online we hope to equip as many carers as possible with an in-depth understanding of the condition, and the necessary skills to help those who need this support," Professor Ostaszkiewicz said.
The self-paced course is open until October 3, 2022. A second course will run from October 17 to December 19.
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