Aims & Objectives
- Build understanding of the difference between mental health and mental illness in older adults
- Recognise common presentations in older persons, including dementia-related behaviours, psychosis (e.g. hallucinations), mood disorders (including bipolar and depression), and delirium
- Increase staff confidence in responding to behaviours such as agitation, distress, shouting, or aggression
- Develop practical skills and approaches to support residents during periods of mental distress
- Explore communication techniques and de-escalation strategies appropriate to a care home environment
- Understand the impact of physical health, cognitive decline, and environment on mental health presentation
- Provide an overview of when and how to access local mental health services for support
- Brief overview of relevant legal frameworks (e.g. Mental Health Act / Mental Capacity considerations)