This course is designed for any staff members who will be working in the health sector in a clinical role. The aim of this training is for the learner to be able to understand Dementia from diagnosis to medication as required by your workplace.
Introduction to Dementia in Primary Care
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- Average time to complete: 2 hours
- 100% online
- Downloadable resources included
- Free CPD-accredited certificate to evidence professional development
Dementia can present in different ways, and symptoms such as memory loss, confusion or changes in behaviour do not always have the same underlying cause. Primary care professionals have an important role in recognising possible dementia, supporting initial assessment and helping patients and families access appropriate care.
This CPD-accredited online dementia training course for healthcare professionals provides an accessible introduction to dementia within UK primary care. It explores common types of dementia, signs and symptoms, assessment and referral, medicines, changing care needs and practical approaches to supporting people living with dementia
Why this course matters
- Builds confidence in recognising common signs and symptoms of dementia
- Develops understanding of the different types of dementia and how they may present
- Introduces the role of primary care in dementia assessment, investigation and referral
- Helps learners distinguish possible dementia from other causes of cognitive change
- Builds awareness of medicines used in dementia and medication-related considerations
- Promotes compassionate, person-centred support for people living with dementia and their families
Person-centred care is a central principle of current NICE dementia guidance, alongside appropriate assessment, diagnosis, ongoing support and involvement of families and carers.
What you will learn
- The characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia
- How symptoms and care needs can change as dementia progresses
- How dementia may be assessed in primary care and when specialist referral may be required
- How other conditions, medicines and health problems can cause or contribute to cognitive symptoms
- The basic principles of medicines used to manage dementia and some associated symptoms
- How communication, routine, independence and appropriate support can help people live well with dementia
Who this course is for
This online dementia in primary care training course is suitable for healthcare and care staff developing foundation-level knowledge of dementia, including:
- Practice nurses and nursing associates
- Healthcare assistants
- Care navigators and other patient-facing primary care staff
- Clinical pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
- Allied health and community healthcare professionals
- Staff supporting people living with dementia as part of their clinical or caring role
The course is designed as an introduction, making it particularly suitable for learners who are new to dementia care or want to refresh their existing knowledge.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Describe dementia and recognise some of its common early signs and symptoms
- Identify key characteristics of several common types of dementia
- Recognise alternative causes of cognitive impairment that may need investigation
- Describe the initial assessment and referral process for suspected dementia in primary care
- Explain the basic role of medicines in dementia management and recognise medication-related considerations
- Identify practical ways to support the wellbeing, independence and dignity of people living with dementia
Full course description
Understanding different types of dementia
The course introduces dementia and explores how Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia can differ in their causes, symptoms, risk factors and progression. This gives learners a broader understanding of dementia rather than treating it as a single condition.
Dementia assessment and diagnosis in primary care
You will consider some of the early signs that may lead to concerns about dementia and the importance of investigating other possible explanations for cognitive change. The course introduces cognitive assessment tools, relevant investigations and the role of referral to specialist dementia or memory services. Current NICE guidance similarly recommends considering reversible causes, appropriate testing and cognitive assessment before referral where dementia remains suspected
Dementia medicines and changing symptoms
The course introduces medicines used in dementia management and considers how existing medications may contribute to cognitive impairment, including the concept of anticholinergic burden. It also explores some of the behavioural and psychological symptoms that may develop as dementia progresses and introduces considerations around their management.
Applying learning in primary care
A practical case study brings together symptoms, cognitive assessment, referral and treatment considerations, giving learners an opportunity to think through how a person presenting with cognitive changes may be supported.
Supporting people living with dementia
Dementia care extends beyond diagnosis and medication. The course considers communication, routine, maintaining a safe environment, meaningful activities and supporting independence and dignity. It also recognises the role of families and carers and introduces sources of additional dementia information and support.
Assessment and certification
At the end of the course, you will complete an assessment to demonstrate your understanding. You will need to achieve a result of 80% or higher to pass. On successful completion, you will receive a downloadable certificate.
Professional responsibility and scope
This course is designed to support knowledge and understanding but does not in itself confirm competence.
- Competency should be assessed within your workplace
- Practice should align with local protocols, current guidance, and professional standards
- You are responsible for applying learning appropriately within your role
- Prescribing and medication decisions should only be undertaken by appropriately qualified professionals
- Concerns should be referred or escalated in accordance with local pathways
Average time to complete
Approximately 2 hours, depending on your prior knowledge and experience. The course is fully self-paced, allowing you to complete it in stages. You can revisit any sections that you’re unsure of.
Course Content
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I buy this course for someone else?
Yes. To do this, register using their email address and the name they would like to appear on their certificate.
For example, you might know them as Kate, but they may need their certificate issued in their full birth name, Katherine. It’s best to check these details with them first.
Once the purchase is complete, they will receive the automatic course link by email.
Can I complete the course in my own time, and how long do I have to access it?
All of our online courses are self-paced, so you can complete them at a time that suits you. Your progress is saved at the end of each lesson, allowing you to return and continue later.
You will have six months from the date of enrolment to complete the course. After six months, the course will no longer be available.
Some courses, such as Basic Life Support, must be completed annually by clinical staff. A new course will therefore need to be purchased each year to ensure the training reflects the most up-to-date guidance.
Can I access the training material after completing the course?
Yes. The course materials are available to download during your access period, so you can keep a copy for future reference. Your course access will remain active for six months from the date of enrolment, after which the course will no longer be available.
Which payment methods do you accept?
We accept card payments via Stripe. You can pay using a debit or credit card (such as Visa or Mastercard).
When will I get my certificate?
As soon as you have passed the end-of-course assessment and achieved the required pass rate of 80% or more, your certificate will be available to download from the top of the course page.
Do you offer refunds if I no longer need the course?
Refunds may be available if you have not logged into your account.
Once you have logged in, you will have access to the course materials and downloadable content, and a refund will no longer be possible.
What should I do if I can't log into my account?
When registering, please make sure you enter the correct email address, as login issues are often caused by an incorrect email being used. It can help to copy and paste your email address to avoid mistakes.
If you are unable to log in, click ‘Forgotten password’ and follow the instructions to reset your password via the email link sent to you.
If you continue to experience issues, please contact GPHA-training@gphealthcarealliance.co.uk and we will endeavour to respond within two working weeks.
Save with flexible discounts
Create a bespoke training package:
Choose five or more courses for one learner and receive 30% off the full package
Book training for your team:
Purchasing multiple licences for the same course?
- 5 or more learners, receive 10% off
- 10 or more learners, receive 20% off
To receive a discount code or discuss offers, email gpha-training@gphealthcarealliance.co.uk
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