Effective Communication & Positive Approaches in Dementia Support

Effective communication is at the heart of compassionate dementia support.

Designed to support people who are new to working in Aotearoa New Zealand’s health and aged support sectors, this course explores practical, culturally responsive approaches that strengthen connection, uphold dignity and create meaningful opportunities for engagement. This e-learning course is relevant to anyone supporting people living with dementia mate wareware.

1-hour online course

Self-paced e-learning.

Self-directed learning

Return whenever you need.

Two practical modules

Tips, advice and resources.

Certificate included

Receive it on completion.

What you’ll explore

Build the confidence and practical skills to communicate meaningfully and support the identity, autonomy and wellbeing of people living with dementia mate wareware.

Understanding communication and dementia

Explore how changes in memory, language and cognition can affect communication and relationships, and learn how to adapt your approach.

Connection, choice and personhood

Learn how respectful communication can reduce stigma, uphold dignity and support choice, autonomy and decision-making.

Culturally responsive communication

Develop strategies for communicating across cultures and creating therapeutic relationships grounded in trust, understanding and respect.

Positive approaches to engagement

Discover how life stories, storytelling, familiar objects and culturally meaningful activities can promote connection, inclusion and wellbeing.

About this course

Is this course for me?

This course is designed for anyone who wants to strengthen their communication skills and develop positive approaches to supporting people living with dementia mate wareware.

It is particularly relevant for:
  • New and experienced members of the health and aged support workforce
  • Healthcare assistants and support workers
  • Nurses and allied health professionals
  • Community and home support workers
  • Diversional therapists and activity coordinators
  • Team leaders and clinical staff
  • Anyone supporting people living with dementia mate wareware


The practical strategies can be applied across residential, community, home and clinical support settings.

What will I learn?

You’ll learn how dementia can affect communication and relationships and how to adapt your communication to support understanding, dignity and meaningful connection.

You’ll also explore cross-cultural communication, therapeutic relationships, life story work, reflective practice and respectful, person-centred documentation.

How will this support my practice?

You’ll develop practical approaches for communicating with greater confidence, compassion and cultural awareness.

You’ll be better equipped to create supportive environments, strengthen relationships and offer meaningful opportunities for participation and engagement.These skills will help you promote choice, autonomy, inclusion, wellbeing and quality of life for people living with dementia mate wareware.
Ready to strengthen the way you communicate and connect?

Effective Communication & Positive Approaches in Dementia Support

Develop practical, culturally responsive communication strategies that uphold dignity, strengthen relationships and promote meaningful engagement for people living with dementia mate wareware.