Imagine how it feels to be locked in a world where you feel frustrated, fearful or confused, but you can’t tell anyone what’s happening to you. This is a tough reality for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. The stress can cause them to become angry and aggressive; they may resist care or suddenly go missing.

If you’re caring for someone with dementia, breaking through the wall into that world feels impossible. The behavior can be frightening, and it’s difficult to figure out how to keep yourself and the person with dementia safe and comfortable.

But often, the challenging behaviors have specific triggers, something in the environment that is confusing or frightening to the person with dementia. Once you are familiar with the triggers, you can ask the right questions and take the right action to change the person’s environment and respond to the person’s needs.

That’s why the U-First! training program is unique. It uses a practical and case-based approach that helps caregivers identify potential triggers, understand the behaviour and provide helpful and productive support.

About U-First!

– An innovative and unique training program that has evolved over 10 years and trained 7,000 workers caring for people with dementia

– Uses P.I.E.C.E.S.™, a simple and memorable  concept to help understand why behaviours occur

-Training provided by the Alzheimer Society of Ontario through master trainers around the province

Who should attend?

-People working in community care, acute care and long-term care.

-Informal caregivers, i.e. family, friends

What is the format & cost?

– Take one 6-hour or two 3-hour workshops

– Cost is $60, including materials and a Certificate of Completion

Why take the course?

-Learn to recognize triggers and take steps to minimize them

-Learn to respond to challenging behavior in a safe and helpful way

-Feel more confident in caring for someone with dementia

Find a U-First! training session near you >>

U-First! is available through the Alzheimer Society of Ontario. For more information, contact ufirst@alzheimeront.org

About the Blog Author: Karen McCall is an Alzheimer Society volunteer helping to make a difference.