Dementia changes how a person experiences the world, but meaningful connection is always possible. This interactive workshop provides practical tools to help you better understand dementia and respond with confidence, empathy and respect.

Rather than focusing only on symptoms or decline, this course explores how communication, environment and approach can either increase distress or create calm and connection. Participants will learn how to “enter the person's world” by recognising emotional needs, adjusting language and using supportive engagement techniques.

Drawing on extensive real-world experience supporting people living with dementia, families and care teams, this session focuses on what actually works in everyday situations. You will leave with strategies you can use immediately whether you are supporting a family member, working in aged care, volunteering or simply wanting to better understand dementia in your community.

The workshop is practical, reflective and engaging, combining discussion, examples and simple activities that build confidence without overwhelm.

Learning Outcomes:

Participants will:

• Understand how dementia affects communication and behaviour
• Learn practical strategies to reduce distress and support dignity
• Build confidence in responding to repetitive questions and emotional expressions
• Recognise the importance of validation and emotional safety
• Discover ways to create meaningful engagement and connection
• Feel more confident and comfortable supporting someone living with dementia
• Develop the skills to ENTER Their World, rather than unintentionally trying to pull them back into ours

What to bring:

• A notebook and pen
• Any questions or real situations you would like guidance on
• An open mind and willingness to reflect

About the Tutor:

'Emma Payne is a Dementia Engagement Specialist, speaker and founder of HappiHive. With more than 90,000 interactions with people living with dementia and their families, she is known for translating best practice into simple, practical strategies that people can actually use.

Emma specialises in helping people move beyond managing behaviours to building genuine connection and dignity-centred support. She delivers education across aged care, community organisations and businesses and is passionate about making dementia understanding accessible, human and empowering for everyone.'

Other Information:

• To ensure resources are ready for you at the start of your course, we ask you ideally enrol at least one week before the course commences.
• All courses need a minimum number of students to run ("we try our hardest to get those") . If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled before the commencement and you will be informed.