How nurses are collaborating with peers in aged care to transform dementia care

Communities of practice helping to connect minds and influence change

With the current shortage of healthcare workers, it has become imperative to strengthen the capabilities of our existing workforce. Ensuring that nurses are given the right training to succeed in aged care settings will not only help attract and retain staff to the sector but also elevate the quality of care provided.

In response to this need, Dementia Australia has launched new Leadership and Practice Change education programs tailored specifically for people working in care settings. These programs aim to equip professionals with the skills necessary to thrive in their roles, contributing to the enhancement of healthcare services. 

“Strong leadership was recognised as a critical element of sustained practice improvements by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and in response, also by the Federal Government,” says Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM.  

As a part of this initiative is the launch of Dementia Australia's Community of Practice (CoP), designed to build professional communities for networking, knowledge-sharing, and skill development. The program is specifically geared towards supporting individuals to bring about positive change within their respective workplaces. 

For nurses, active participation in a dementia Community of Practice (CoP) presents invaluable opportunities for professional growth and collaboration. Within the CoP framework, nurses find a platform to exchange experiences, insights, and best practice in dementia care. The collaborative environment enables them to gain insights from each other's successes and challenges, cultivating a deeper understanding of effective strategies and approaches.

Given the dynamic nature of dementia care, marked by continuous advancements in research and practices, engagement in a CoP has become crucial. Through participation, nurses can stay abreast of the latest developments, evidence-based interventions, and emerging trends in dementia care. This ensures that nurses not only remain informed but also positioned at the forefront of their profession, ready to provide the highest standard of care to individuals with dementia. 

Be a part of Dementia Australia's Community of Practice (CoP)

Dementia Australia's Community of Practice offers a structured format, with monthly online meetings lasting 1.5 hours each. These facilitated discussions cover a new topic each month, selected based on the needs of the group. Additionally, guest speakers and dementia experts are invited to present throughout the year, enriching the learning experience.

Participation in the CoP is cost effective, with free access to online resources, forums, and training through Dementia Australia’s Dementia Learning Hub. The program is delivered online, ensuring accessibility for professionals in diverse roles. 

To join, individuals must be working in a professional capacity with people living with dementia, making it inclusive for care workers, nurses, allied health professionals, and leaders.

Key outcomes of the program

• Develop a support network of like-minded peers.
• Access continued learning and development beyond formal education and workshops.
• Build confidence and ability to drive internal change.
• Share learnings and provide mentoring within your organisation.

For more information on how to register, click here.

Dementia Australia (RTO CODE: 2512) provides a nationally accredited training courses for residential and community care services professionals and healthcare providers in our own right and on behalf of other States and Territories.

Dementia Training Australia is a major funder of these programs under the Australian Government Dementia and Aged Care Services Fund and delivered by Dementia Australia (RTO CODE 2512). Visit dta.com.au

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