Event Detail

Date : 19th February, 2026

Overview

RRTC, Mission Foundation Movement successfully organized a three-day training programme on Dementia Care & Management at Lawngtlai, Mizoram from 19th – 21st February 2026. The programme was conducted with the aim of strengthening knowledge and caregiving capacity among community members, health workers, and caregivers of elderly persons.

With the steady rise in the ageing population, dementia has emerged as an important health and social concern. The training programme focused on enhancing awareness, promoting early identification of symptoms, and equipping participants with practical caregiving skills to improve the quality of life of persons living with dementia.

Purpose of the Programme

The programme was organized to achieve the following purposes:

• To enhance understanding of dementia and related conditions
• To build skills in caring for elderly persons with cognitive impairment
• To promote early diagnosis and appropriate intervention
• To encourage community-based support systems for dementia care
• To reduce stigma and misconceptions related to mental decline in old age

Participation

The training programme was attended by caregivers, community volunteers, health functionaries, representatives of local organizations, and family members of elderly persons. Participants showed keen interest and actively took part in discussions, group work, and practical sessions conducted during the programme.

Programme Implementation

Day 1: Awareness and Basic Understanding

The first day focused on creating awareness and providing foundational knowledge about dementia. Sessions covered the definition, causes, symptoms, stages, and risk factors associated with dementia. Participants were also informed about the difference between normal ageing and dementia-related conditions. Interactive discussions enabled participants to clarify doubts and share their experiences

Day 2: Caregiving Skills and Management

The second day concentrated on practical aspects of caregiving. Resource persons explained various approaches to managing behavioural changes, communication difficulties, and daily care needs of dementia patients. Demonstrations were conducted on safe mobility practices, maintaining hygiene, and ensuring proper nutrition for elderly persons.

Participants were also sensitized about the emotional and psychological needs of persons living with dementia and the importance of patience and empathy in caregiving.

Day 3: Community Role and Support Mechanisms

The final day emphasized the role of families, communities, and local institutions in providing continuous care and support to elderly persons with dementia. Sessions highlighted caregiver stress management, importance of social inclusion, and available welfare schemes and services for senior citizens.

The programme concluded with an interactive feedback session, where participants expressed appreciation for the knowledge gained and suggested the need for more such training programmes in rural areas.

Training Methodology

The programme adopted participatory and learner-friendly methods such as:

• Lecture-cum-discussion Demonstrations
• Group activities
• Experience sharing
• Question and answer sessions

These approaches ensured better understanding and practical learning among participants.

Outcomes and Impact

The programme contributed significantly to improving awareness and caregiving capacity at the community level. Participants reported increased confidence in identifying early signs of dementia and providing appropriate care to affected elderly persons.

The training also helped in promoting positive attitudes towards ageing and encouraged the formation of informal support networks among caregivers.

Conclusion

The three-day training programme on Dementia Care & Management organized at Lawngtlai was successfully completed and achieved its intended objectives. The initiative strengthened community knowledge, enhanced caregiving skills, and promoted a compassionate approach towards elderly persons living with dementia.

RRTC, Mission Foundation Movement continues to play an important role in addressing issues related to ageing and dementia through awareness generation and capacity-building programmes.