Dementia in Indigenous communities: a ‘knowledge-to-action’ professional development program for remote practitioners
Dementia in Indigenous communities: a ‘knowledge-to-action’ professional development program for remote practitioners Conference Paper
National SARRAH Conference Papers
- Author(s): Lindeman, M. A., Jensen, H
- Published: 2012
- Publisher: Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health
Abstract: Knowledge translation (KT) is a process that includes the synthesis, dissemination, exchange and application of knowledge to improve health (including services and the health system), with education being one key mechanism. The program ‘Recognising and Responding to Dementia in Indigenous Communities (RRDIC)’ offered by the Centre for Remote Health aims to develop remote and primary health care workers’ skills and knowledge in Indigenous dementia care and management, including appropriate dementia assessment. This ‘knowledge- to-action’ program translates relevant recent research findings into a comprehensive resource document, and an interactive two-day workshop, with conceptual frameworks and practical materials designed to be used by participants in their practice contexts. Dementia care and management is an area that has experienced accelerated research in response to the growing disease burden in Australia. An increased awareness of the higher prevalence of dementia in Australian remote Aboriginal communities has led to a need for up-to-date and contextually relevant learning materials for health professionals working with these groups. This paper reports on development, delivery and evaluation phases of the education program. Particular KT strategies will be highlighted such as participatory processes involving practitioners, clients, carers and community members; and use of frameworks that accommodate cultural and environmental considerations (including cultural safety; and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Particular learning strategies used in the program will also be highlighted such as: • Reflective questions designed to foster deeper learning and promote reflective practice • Case studies designed to highlight areas requiring particular knowledge and skills • Comments and quotations from individuals experienced in the area to ensure relevance to aged care in remote and Indigenous contexts • Frequently asked questions, and answers provided by key experts in the area of Indigenous dementia • Carer communication strategies to encourage skill development in determining what, when and how practitioners need to communicate with carers and family members. The program is underpinned by the principles of effective KT, including using best available knowledge, attention to context, end user involvement and participatory processes in the program’s development and implementation, and use of educational strategies that lead to change in practice
- Urls: https://www.sarrah.org.au/sites/default/files/docs/melissa_lindeman_-_2012.pdf
- Publisher Location: Launceston, Tasmania