Partnering with Whānau (Family) in Dementia Support

Families and whānau play a central role in the lives of people living with dementia mate wareware.

Explore practical ways to build trusting relationships, communicate effectively and work in partnership with those closest to the person.

1-hour online course

Self-paced e-learning.

Self-directed learning

Return whenever you need.

Three practical modules

Tips, advice and resources.

Certificate included

Receive it on completion.

What you’ll explore

Develop the knowledge and confidence to build respectful, culturally responsive partnerships with families and whānau throughout the dementia journey.

Understanding family and whānau perspectives

Explore the expectations families may have, why some delay seeking support and the barriers they may experience throughout the dementia journey.

Building trust through communication

Learn practical communication approaches that encourage collaboration, strengthen relationships and keep the person living with dementia at the centre.

Navigating conflict respectfully

Understand common sources of conflict between whānau and support teams and develop strategies for approaching challenging conversations with empathy.

Planning for the future

Explore how to support whānau through advance care planning, future decision-making and end-of-life discussions while respecting diverse cultural values, beliefs and traditions.

About this course

Is this course for me?

This course is designed for anyone supporting people living with dementia mate wareware who wants to strengthen their ability to work effectively with families and whānau.

It is particularly relevant for:
  • 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 wanting to build confidence in supporting whānau throughout the dementia journey


Whether you are new to dementia support or want to strengthen your communication and relationship-building skills, this course offers practical strategies that can be applied across a range of support settings.

What will I learn?

You’ll explore how family expectations, experiences and cultural values can influence involvement and decision-making. You’ll learn effective communication techniques, recognise common causes of conflict and develop practical ways to navigate challenging conversations respectfully.

You’ll also consider how to support whānau through future planning and end-of-life decisions while respecting their beliefs, traditions and preferences.

How will this support my practice?

You’ll be better equipped to build trusting partnerships with families and whānau, respond to different perspectives with empathy and approach sensitive conversations with greater confidence.

These skills will help you provide compassionate, person-centred and culturally responsive support throughout the dementia journey.
Ready to strengthen your partnerships with families and whānau?

Partnering with Whānau (Family) in Dementia Support

Build the confidence and practical skills to communicate effectively, navigate challenging conversations and work alongside families and whānau throughout the dementia journey.