One of the first times Nicole*, a St John Ambulance transport officer and clinical educator, was exposed to dementia was when she arrived at a hospital emergency department and was told by the nursing staff that the patient was combative; fighting staff and trying to get his hands out of restraints.
"My partner and I went in, and we sort of swaddled the patient with a sheet to make sure we weren't going to get hurt. He was nonverbal.
"When we got back to the care facility, we found out that before the progression of his dementia, he had been a conductor in a band, and he was a maestro. So, where his behaviour was perceived as being combative, he was actually conducting his band.
This experience and others since have prompted Nicole to better educate herself about dementia and how it affects people and their families.
"A big thing is always have full respect for the patients," said Nicole. Interacting with a person who has dementia requires a new, unique approach compared to interacting with an elderly person who doesn't have dementia. It's important to approach each person individually."
First responders such as police, ambulance and fire and rescue officers frequently have to help or work with people with dementia and it can be challenging for the responder and frightening and confusing for the patient.
Dementia training for first responders
Dementia Training Australia has launched a pioneering First Responders Course aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by front-line workers when dealing with people living with dementia.
The free, one-hour, online course, the first of its kind in Australia, is designed to improve dementia care in emergencies and is backed by the Commonwealth Government.
"Currently, we are asking our first responders to handle situations they are not fully prepared for. Many may have never encountered a person with dementia or witnessed the various behavioural changes that may occur," said Dementia Training Australia's Ellie Newman.
The national course has evolved from a 2020 pilot partnership between Dementia Training Australia, St John's Ambulance, and WA Police, which initially produced a specialised training program for staff.
"Our first responders often face challenging situations involving individuals living with dementia," said Isabelle Meyer, Executive Director of Dementia Training Australia.
"This training will empower our police, fire, emergency workers, paramedics, and ambulance officers to handle such encounters empathetically and safely, ensuring the well-being of everyone involved."
More than 400,000 people are living with dementia in Australia - a number expected to double by 2058.
Dementia Training Australia runs a number of courses for organisations and individuals.
- dta.com.au, 1300-229-092
*Nicole requested only her first name be used.