Course Overview

Dementia Care Foundations is an immersive, instructor‑led course designed to help learners understand dementia with clarity, confidence, and compassion. Dementia affects how a person thinks, communicates, behaves, and experiences the world — and it also profoundly affects the people who love and support them.

This course goes far beyond definitions and symptoms. It brings together evidence‑informed practice, real caregiving insight, and the human side of dementia — the part that textbooks rarely capture.

Learners explore how dementia changes the brain, how to interpret behavioural expressions, how to communicate effectively, and how to support daily activities with dignity and respect. The course also integrates Indigenous perspectives, trauma‑informed approaches, and culturally safe care practices.

This course is taught live by an experienced nurse educator with extensive experience teaching dementia care in British Columbia. Every session includes real stories, real examples, and meaningful human connection.

Learners consistently describe this course as transformative because it helps them understand not only what dementia is, but who the person is behind the diagnosis.

This course is ideal for family caregivers, individuals supporting loved ones, community helpers, and anyone preparing for future caregiving roles.

No previous healthcare experience is required.

This is a non‑vocational short course.

Course Snapshop

• Course Title: Dementia Care Foundations

• Course Code: SCC-DCF 101

• Total Hours: 38

• Delivery: Live instructor-led (online)

• Credential: Statement of Completion

• Course Type: Non-vocational short course (PTIB-Exempt)

What You Will Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Recognize early signs and types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and other neurocognitive disorders.

2. Understand the stages of dementia and how cognitive changes affect memory, judgment, communication, and independence.

3. Apply non‑pharmacological communication strategies such as validation, redirection, and de‑escalation.

4. Support daily care routines (bathing, grooming, meals, mobility) in ways that reduce resistance and promote dignity.

5. Identify triggers behind behavioural expressions such as wandering, repetitive questions, sundowning, and agitation.

6. Interpret behavioural expressions as unmet needs rather than “problems.”

7. Create safe, supportive home and community environments.

8. Support brain‑healthy routines, meaningful activities, and cognitive engagement.

9. Navigate care‑related decisions, including safety planning and long‑term support options.

10. Build resilience and prevent caregiver burnout through emotional regulation and self‑care strategies.

Why This Course Is Different

You may notice confusion, memory loss, or changes in behaviour, and suddenly everyday interactions become challenging.

You might feel frustrated.

You might feel unsure of what to do.

You might worry about saying or doing the wrong thing.

But behind every behaviour is a person who still needs understanding, patience, and connection.

This course helps you understand what’s really happening — and how to respond in ways that reduce stress, build trust, and support dignity.

You will learn practical strategies that make a real difference, whether you are supporting a loved one or preparing for a future in caregiving.

Because dementia care is not just about managing symptoms —it’s about understanding the person.

Course Modules (38 Hours)

• Module 1: Foundations of Dementia & Cognitive Changes

• Module 2: Understanding Dementia in Daily Life

• Module 3: Stages, Progression & Observation

• Module 4: Communication & Person‑Centred Care

• Module 5: Responsive Behaviours (BPSD) & Indigenous Perspectives

• Module 6: Safety, De‑Escalation & Abuse Prevention

• Module 7: ADLs, Environment & Therapeutic Approaches

Course Topics

1) Foundations of Dementia and Cognitive Changes

This module gently introduces learners to what dementia actually is — not just the medical definition, but what it means for a person’s daily life.

Learners will understand:

• What dementia is: a group of conditions that affect the brain and gradually change how a person thinks, remembers, and communicates.

• How dementia is different from normal aging: forgetting where you put your keys is normal; forgetting what keys are used for is not.

• Dementia vs delirium: delirium comes on suddenly (often from infection or dehydration) and can be reversed; dementia is gradual and progressive.

• Reversible causes of confusion: infections, medication side effects, dehydration, vitamin deficiencies — and why these must be ruled out.

• How dementia affects the brain: which areas control memory, language, judgment, and behaviour — and what happens when these areas change.

• Early signs and symptoms: repeating questions, getting lost, personality changes, difficulty with planning, and changes in judgment.

• Goals of care: safety, dignity, independence, and emotional well‑being.

This module builds the foundation for everything else.

Learners leave with a clear, confident understanding of what dementia actually is.

2) Understanding Dementia

This module explains how dementia affects a person’s everyday functioning — in ways that are often confusing or misunderstood.

Learners will understand:

• Types of dementia:

• Alzheimer’s disease (memory‑focused)

• Vascular dementia (blood flow‑related changes)

• Lewy body dementia (movement + hallucinations)

• Frontotemporal dementia (behaviour + personality changes)

• How dementia affects thinking: difficulty planning, organizing, or following steps.

• How dementia affects communication: trouble finding words, understanding instructions, or expressing needs.

• How dementia affects emotions: fear, frustration, sadness, or withdrawal.

• How dementia affects relationships: role changes, stress, and misunderstandings.

• How dementia affects independence: challenges with cooking, bathing, dressing, and managing medications.

This module helps learners see dementia through the eyes of the person living with it — with empathy and clarity.

3) Stages, Progression, and Observation

This module teaches learners how dementia changes over time and how to recognize what stage a person may be in.

Learners will understand:

• Early stage: mild memory loss, repeating questions, getting lost, difficulty managing finances.

• Middle stage: increased confusion, sleep changes, wandering, difficulty with daily tasks.

• Late stage: limited communication, full assistance with ADLs, increased vulnerability.

• Behavioural and psychological symptoms (BPSD): agitation, hallucinations, pacing, calling out, resistance to care.

• Why behaviours happen: unmet needs, fear, pain, confusion, overstimulation, loneliness.

• How to observe patterns:

• When does the behaviour happen?

• What happened right before?

• What helped or made it worse?

• Case example: “A Day in the Life”: a realistic scenario showing how dementia affects a full day.

This module teaches learners to see the meaning behind behaviours — not just the behaviour itself.

4) Communication and Person-Centred Care

This module gives learners practical communication tools that reduce stress and build trust.

Learners will understand:

• Why communication becomes difficult: the brain struggles to process language, instructions, and complex information.

• How to communicate clearly: short sentences, one step at a time, calm tone, gentle body language.

• Validation: acknowledging feelings instead of correcting facts (“You miss your mother. Tell me about her.”).

• Redirection: guiding attention to something comforting or familiar.

• Avoiding elderspeak: no baby talk, no talking down, no “honey” or “sweetie” unless the person prefers it.

• Supporting ADLs:

• Bathing without resistance

• Dressing with dignity

• Eating with independence

• Mobility with safety

• Encouraging independence: offering choices, using cues, and supporting abilities rather than taking over.

This module gives learners the communication skills that make caregiving easier and more compassionate.

5) Responsive Behaviours (BPSD) and Cultural Safety

This module reframes “challenging behaviours” as expressions of unmet needs.

Learners will understand:

• What responsive behaviours are: the person is responding to something — pain, fear, confusion, noise, hunger, loneliness.

• Common behaviours: wandering, agitation, hallucinations, repetitive questions, calling out, resistance to care.

• How to respond safely:

• Stay calm

• Give space

• Use a soft voice

• Offer reassurance

• Remove triggers

• Trauma‑informed care: understanding that past trauma can influence present behaviour.

• Cultural safety: respecting traditions, communication styles, and personal identity.

• Indigenous perspectives:

  • Holistic wellness

• Community roles

• Respect for Elders

• Impacts of colonization and trauma

• Importance of cultural continuity

This module teaches learners to see behaviour as communication — not as “problems.”

6) Safety, De-Escalation, and Abuse Prevention

This module focuses on keeping both the caregiver and the person safe.

Learners will understand:

• How to recognize unsafe situations: wandering outside, kitchen hazards, falls, aggression, confusion in public places.

• Environmental safety: lighting, clutter, noise, temperature, layout.

• De‑escalation:

• Stay calm

• Lower your voice

• Give space

• Remove stressors

• Offer comfort

• Elder abuse awareness: what it is, how to recognize it, and how to report it.

• Supporting families: helping them cope with stress, guilt, and exhaustion.

• Caregiver burnout: signs, prevention, and support.

This module empowers learners to create safe, calm, supportive environments.

7) Daily Living Activities, Environment, and Therapeutic Approaches

This module brings everything together into practical caregiving strategies.

Learners will understand:

• How to create a dementia‑friendly environment:

• Clear pathways

• Familiar objects

• Calm lighting

• Reduced noise

• Safe kitchen and bathroom setups

• Non‑pharmacological therapies:

• Music therapy

• Art and creative expression

• Reminiscence therapy

• Sensory activities

• Supporting cognitive and physical activity: simple exercises, puzzles, routines.

• Nutrition and hydration: how dementia affects appetite, taste, swallowing, and mealtime behaviour.

• Technology supports: timers, labels, picture cues, simple apps.

• End‑of‑life considerations: gentle introduction to late‑stage needs.

This module gives learners the hands‑on tools they need to support daily life with dignity and respect.

Instructional Method

This course is delivered through live, instructor‑led online sessions that include interactive discussions, case studies, scenario‑based learning, guided reflections, and practical demonstrations. Learners are encouraged to participate actively and explore approaches suitable for home and community caregiving environments.

Tuition & Payment Options

Total Tuition: $599

Option 1 – Standard Payment Plan

• $150 deposit

• $224.50 midway

• $224.50 before final session

Option 2 – Bi-Weekly Plan

• $150 deposit

• $112.25 every two weeks (4 payments)

Option 3 – Full Payment

• $599 at registration

Requirements

• No prior healthcare experience required

• Access to a device with internet

• Willingness to participate

Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for family caregivers, individuals supporting loved ones in home or community environments, and anyone who wants to understand dementia more deeply and provide compassionate, informed support. It is not intended for regulated employment or professional certification pathways.

Policies

Attendance & Participation

Learners are expected to attend all live sessions and participate in discussions, case studies, and practical activities. Because this is an interactive, instructor‑led course, active engagement is essential for successful completion.

Technology Requirements

Participants must have access to a computer or mobile device with a stable internet connection, functioning audio, and the ability to use Microsoft Teams. Basic computer skills such as email, file access, and navigation are required.

Assessment & Completion

To receive a Statement of Completion, learners must complete all quizzes, activities, and the final knowledge check with a minimum grade of 65%.

Extensions may be granted at the instructorʼs discretion in exceptional circumstances.

Refunds

Refunds are available up to 7 days before the course start date. Deposits are non‑refundable but may be transferred to a future cohort once per learner. No refunds are issued after the course begins.

Code of Conduct

Seaside Coast College maintains a respectful, inclusive learning environment. Disruptive behaviour, harassment, or discriminatory language will not be tolerated. Learners are expected to treat peers, instructors, and course content with professionalism.

This course is classified as a non‑vocational short course and does not qualify learners for regulated employment. It is intended for personal development, caregiver education, and community learning..

This course is not designed to prepare students for employment in a specific occupation.

Course Details

Duration: 38 hours

Delivery Options:
Full-Time: Intensive weekday format (9:00 AM -5:00)
Part-Time: Weekend format (Saturday & Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Private One-on-One: Flexible scheduling based on student and instructor availability

Location: Live Online (Microsoft Teams)

Limited seats available. Early registration is recommended.

End-of-Life Care Foundations

Live, Instructor-Led | Ongoing Enrolment

Flexible scheduling options available

Course Overview

End-of-life care is one of the most meaningful and sensitive forms of support a person can provide.

End-of-life care is one of the most meaningful and sensitive forms of support a person can provide. During this stage of life, individuals and families often experience a range of physical, emotional, and spiritual changes, and the presence of a calm, informed, and compassionate caregiver can make a significant difference.

This course is designed to help learners feel more prepared and confident when supporting someone at end of life. It provides a clear and practical introduction to what may occur during the dying process, while emphasizing dignity, comfort, and respect for each individual’s unique experience.

Learners will explore how to respond to common situations that arise during end-of-life care, including changes in physical condition, emotional responses, and family dynamics. The course focuses on non-clinical, supportive approaches that can be applied in personal, community, or volunteer settings.

In addition to practical knowledge, this course recognizes the emotional impact of end-of-life care. Learners will be encouraged to reflect on their own understanding of death, dying, and grief, while developing strategies to remain present, supportive, and emotionally balanced.

Cultural and spiritual perspectives are integrated throughout the course, including Indigenous approaches to holistic care, community connection, and respect for traditions. This supports learners in providing care that is culturally safe, inclusive, and respectful of diverse beliefs and practices.

This course is suitable for individuals who are caring for a loved one, exploring caregiving roles, or simply wanting to feel more prepared to support others during end-of-life situations. No prior healthcare experience is required.

By the end of the course, learners will have a stronger understanding of how to provide compassionate, respectful, and supportive care within a non-clinical scope, and will feel more confident navigating the challenges and emotions that can arise during end-of-life experiences..

This is a non-vocational short course.

Course Snapshop

• Course Title: End -of -Life Care Foundations

• Course Code: SCC-DCF 101

• Total Hours: 38

• Delivery: Live instructor-led (online)

• Credential: Statement of Completion

• Course Type: Non-vocational short course (PTIB-Exempt)

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Understand the physical, emotional, and spiritual changes that may occur at end of life.

2. Recognize common signs of decline and know how to provide comfort‑focused, non‑clinical support.

3. Communicate with compassion, clarity, and emotional steadiness during difficult moments.

4. Support comfort measures such as positioning, environment, rest, and calm presence.

5. Apply culturally respectful and trauma‑informed approaches to end‑of‑life support.

6. Create a peaceful, safe, and person‑centred environment for individuals and families.

7. Navigate ethical considerations and maintain healthy personal boundaries.

8. Understand anticipatory grief and how it affects individuals, families, and caregivers.

9. Honour cultural and spiritual beliefs, rituals, and traditions related to death and bereavement.

10. Use self‑care strategies to stay grounded, emotionally balanced, and resilient.

Why This Course Is Different

You don’t get a second chance to provide good end‑of‑life care.

When someone is nearing the end of life, families often feel overwhelmed, unsure, and afraid of doing the wrong thing.

They don’t know what to expect.

They don’t know what to say.

They don’t know how to help.

And in those moments, what matters most is having someone who can bring calm, comfort, and presence.

This course helps you become that person.

You will learn how to support individuals with dignity, respond to difficult situations with confidence, and be there for families during one of the most important times in their lives.

Because end‑of‑life care is not just about what you do —it’s about how you show up.

Course Modules (38 Hours)

Module 1: Foundations of End‑of‑Life Care

Module 2: Physical Changes and Comfort Measures

Module 3: Communication and Family Support

Module 4: Cultural and Spiritual Perspectives

Module 5: Ethics, Boundaries, and Self‑Care

Module 6: After‑Death Care and Bereavement Support

Course Topics

1) Foundations of End‑of‑Life Care

This module introduces the principles of end‑of‑life care, focusing on dignity, comfort, and respect. Learners explore the role of caregivers and the importance of emotional presence.

What learners will understand:

• What “end‑of‑life” means in a non‑clinical context

• How to support comfort without medical interventions

• How to be present without needing to “fix” anything

• How to support emotional and spiritual needs

• How to honour the person’s identity, history, and preferences

Real‑world examples:

Example 1: “He keeps asking if he’s dying.”

Learners practice responding gently without giving medical advice.

Example 2: “She doesn’t want to talk about death.”

Learners learn how to follow the person’s lead and respect boundaries.

Example 3: “The family is in denial.”

Learners understand how to support families without judgment.

2) Physical Changes and Comfort Measures

Learners gain a clear understanding of the physical changes that may occur near the end of life and how to support comfort in a non‑clinical way.

What learners will understand:

• Changes in breathing, appetite, sleep, and awareness

• Why these changes happen

• How to support comfort through positioning, environment, and presence

• How to reduce fear by explaining what is normal

• How to create a peaceful environment

Real‑world examples:

Example 1: Irregular breathing

Learners understand that long pauses in breathing are normal.

Example 2: Decreased appetite

Learners learn why forcing food can cause discomfort.

Example 3: Restlessness

Learners learn how to reduce stimulation and offer reassurance.

3) Communication and Family Support

This module teaches learners how to communicate during emotionally charged moments.

What learners will understand:

• How to speak gently and clearly

• How to listen deeply

• How to support families experiencing fear or guilt

• How to respond when emotions are high

• How to maintain calm presence

Real‑world examples:

Example 1: “I’m afraid to die.”

Learners practice validating feelings without giving medical advice.

Example 2: Family conflict

Learners understand how to support calm communication.

Example 3: Silence

Learners learn how to offer presence without needing words.

4) Cultural and Spiritual Perspectives

Learners explore cultural and spiritual beliefs related to death and dying.

What learners will understand:

• Cultural beliefs about death

• Indigenous perspectives on holistic care

• How to honour rituals and traditions

• How to support spiritual needs respectfully

• How to provide culturally safe care

Real‑world examples:

Example 1: Ceremony and tradition

Learners understand how to support smudging, songs, or prayers.

Example 2: Spiritual distress

Learners learn how to support without imposing beliefs.

Example 3: Family rituals

Learners understand how to create space for cultural practices.

5) Ethics, Boundaries, and Self‑Care

This module teaches learners how to support others without becoming overwhelmed.

What learners will understand:

• Ethical considerations

• The limits of a non‑clinical role

• How to maintain healthy boundaries

• How to recognize emotional strain

• How to practice self‑care

Real‑world examples:

Example 1: Over‑involvement

Learners understand how to maintain boundaries.

Example 2: Emotional exhaustion

Learners learn how to recognize burnout.

Example 3: Ethical dilemmas

Learners understand how to navigate requests that feel uncomfortable.

6) After‑Death Care and Bereavement Support (Expanded)

Learners explore what may occur after death and how to support families during early grief.

What learners will understand:

• What to expect immediately after death

• How to support families with calm presence

• Cultural and spiritual practices after death

• How grief shows up differently for everyone

• How to provide compassionate support

Real‑world examples:

Example 1: The moment of death

Learners understand how to remain calm and supportive.

Example 2: Early grief

Learners learn how to offer presence without pressure.

Example 3: Cultural rituals

Learners understand how to honour traditions respectfully.

Instructional Method

This course is delivered through live, instructor‑led online sessions that include interactive discussions, case studies, scenario‑based learning, guided reflections, and practical demonstrations. Learners are encouraged to participate actively and explore approaches suitable for home and community caregiving environments.

Tuition & Payment Options

Total Tuition: $599

Option 1 – Standard Payment Plan

• $150 deposit

• $224.50 midway

• $224.50 before final session

Option 2 – Bi-Weekly Plan

• $150 deposit

• $112.25 every two weeks (4 payments)

Option 3 – Full Payment

• $599 at registration

Requirements

• No prior healthcare experience required

• Access to a device with internet

• Willingness to participate

Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for family caregivers, individuals supporting loved ones in home or community environments, and anyone who wants to understand dementia more deeply and provide compassionate, informed support. It is not intended for regulated employment or professional certification pathways.

Policies

Attendance & Participation

Learners are expected to attend all live sessions and participate in discussions, case studies, and practical activities. Because this is an interactive, instructor‑led course, active engagement is essential for successful completion.

Technology Requirements

Participants must have access to a computer or mobile device with a stable internet connection, functioning audio, and the ability to use Microsoft Teams. Basic computer skills such as email, file access, and navigation are required.

Assessment & Completion

To receive a Statement of Completion, learners must complete all quizzes, activities, and the final knowledge check with a minimum grade of 65%.

Extensions may be granted at the instructorʼs discretion in exceptional circumstances.

Refunds

Refunds are available up to 7 days before the course start date. Deposits are non‑refundable but may be transferred to a future cohort once per learner. No refunds are issued after the course begins.

Code of Conduct

Seaside Coast College maintains a respectful, inclusive learning environment. Disruptive behaviour, harassment, or discriminatory language will not be tolerated. Learners are expected to treat peers, instructors, and course content with professionalism.

This course is classified as a non‑vocational short course and does not qualify learners for regulated employment. It is intended for personal development, caregiver education, and community learning..

This course is not designed to prepare students for employment in a specific occupation.