Date : 4th March, 2026

1. Introduction

A three-day training programme onDementia Care & Management was successfully organized by RRTC, Mission Foundation Movement at the Convention Centre, Lunglei, Mizoram from 22ndto 24th December 2025. The programme aimed to enhance awareness, knowledge, and caregiving skills related to dementia among caregivers, health workers, and community representatives.

Dementia is a growing public health concern, particularly among the elderly population, and requires informed care and early management. The training was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and compassionate approaches to improve the quality of life for persons living with dementia.

2. Objectives of the Programme

The key objectives of the programme were:

• To increase awareness and understanding of dementia
• To build the capacity of caregivers and community workers
• To provide practical skills for dementia care and management
• To promote early detection and intervention
• To encourage community-based support systems for elderly care

3. Participants

A total of40 participants attended the programme. The participants included:

• Caregivers of elderly persons
• Healthcare workers
• NGO representatives
• Community volunteers
• Social workers

The diversity of participants contributed to active discussions and exchange of experiences.

4. Programme Highlights

Day 1: Understanding Dementia

The programme commenced with an inaugural session where participants were welcomed and oriented about the objectives of the training.

Key sessions included:

• Introduction to dementia and its types
• Causes, symptoms, and progression of dementia
• Difference between normal ageing and dementia
• Importance of early diagnosis

The sessions were interactive, allowing participants to share their experiences and clarify doubts.

Day 2: Care and Management Strategies

The second day focused on practical caregiving techniques and management strategies.

Topics covered included:

• Communication techniques with dementia patients
• Managing behavioral and psychological symptoms
• Daily care practices and safety measures
• Nutrition and hygiene for elderly persons

Demonstrations and group activities were conducted to help participants understand real-life caregiving situations.

Day 3: Community Support and Rehabilitation

The final day emphasized community involvement and long-term care approaches.

Sessions included:

• Role of family and community in dementia care
• Stress management for caregivers
• Available government schemes and support services
• Rehabilitation and improving quality of life

The programme concluded with a feedback session and distribution of certificates to participants.

5. Methodology

The training programme adopted a participatory approach, including:

• Lectures and presentations
• Group discussions
• Practical demonstrations
• Experience sharing
• Question and answer sessions

This approach ensured active participation and better understanding of the subject matter.

6. Outcomes of the Programme

The programme achieved the following outcomes:

• Increased awareness and understanding of dementia among participants
• Improved caregiving skills and confidence
• Better understanding of early signs and management strategies
• Strengthened community engagement in elderly care
• Creation of a support network among participants

7. Challenges Faced

Some of the challenges encountered during the programme included:

• Limited prior knowledge of dementia among participants
• Emotional sensitivity when discussing caregiving experiences
• Need for more hands-on training sessions

8. Conclusion

The 03-day programme on Dementia Care & Management was highly successful in achieving its objectives. It provided valuable knowledge and practical skills to participants, enabling them to better support persons living with dementia.

The initiative also highlighted the importance of continued awareness and community-based interventions to address the growing challenges of dementia care.

RRTC, Mission Foundation Movement remains committed to promoting the well-being of the elderly and strengthening caregiving capacities across communities.

9. Recommendations

• Conduct more such training programmes at district and community levels
• Develop support groups for caregivers
• Increase awareness campaigns on dementia
• Strengthen collaboration with healthcare institutions
• Provide follow-up training and refresher courses