The Parkinson’s Awareness Training Course is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Parkinson’s disease, its impact, and effective strategies for supporting individuals living with the condition. This course is essential for healthcare professionals, caregivers, and support staff working in various settings, including care homes, hospitals, and community services. It aims to enhance knowledge about Parkinson’s disease and improve the quality of care provided to individuals affected by this progressive neurological condition.
 
Course Content:
 
Introduction to Parkinson’s Disease: Overview of Parkinson’s disease, including its definition, causes, and progression. Understanding the neurological basis of the disease and its impact on motor and non-motor functions.
Symptoms and Diagnosis: Identification of common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. Overview of diagnostic criteria and assessment processes.
Management and Treatment: Examination of current treatments and management strategies for Parkinson’s disease, including medication, physical therapy, and surgical options. Understanding the goals of treatment and the importance of personalised care plans.
Challenges and Complications: Discussion of common challenges and complications associated with Parkinson’s disease, such as dysphagia (swallowing difficulties), falls, and cognitive changes. Strategies for managing these issues effectively.
Person-Centred Care: Approaches for providing person-centred care to individuals with Parkinson’s disease, including communication techniques, promoting independence, and supporting emotional well-being.
Support and Resources: Overview of support services and resources available for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their families, including local support groups, national organisations, and community services.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: Understanding legal and ethical issues related to Parkinson’s disease care, including consent, capacity, and safeguarding.
Practical Skills: Development of practical skills for assisting individuals with Parkinson’s disease, including safe moving and handling techniques, fall prevention strategies, and effective communication methods.
 
Learning Outcomes: By the end of the Parkinson’s Awareness Training Course, participants will be able to:
 
Understand Parkinson’s Disease: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of Parkinson’s disease, including its causes, symptoms, and progression.
Recognise Symptoms: Identify and understand the common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and the diagnostic criteria used for assessment.
Apply Management Strategies: Implement current management and treatment strategies for Parkinson’s disease, including medication, therapy, and support options.
Address Challenges and Complications: Manage common challenges and complications associated with Parkinson’s disease, such as swallowing difficulties, falls, and cognitive changes.
Provide Person-Centred Care: Use person-centred care approaches to effectively support individuals with Parkinson’s disease, promoting independence and emotional well-being.
Utilise Support Resources: Identify and utilise available support services and resources for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their families.
Adhere to Legal and Ethical Standards: Understand and apply legal and ethical considerations in the care of individuals with Parkinson’s disease, including consent, capacity, and safeguarding.
Develop Practical Skills: Apply practical skills for assisting individuals with Parkinson’s disease, including safe moving and handling techniques and fall prevention.
Enhance Communication: Use effective communication techniques to support individuals with Parkinson’s disease and address their needs appropriately.
Improve Quality of Care: Apply the knowledge and skills gained to enhance the overall quality of care provided to individuals with Parkinson’s disease, improving their quality of life.
 
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will receive a Parkinson’s Awareness certificate, recognising their competence in understanding and supporting individuals with Parkinson’s disease. This certification supports their role in delivering high-quality, person-centred care and contributes to their professional development in neurology and geriatric care.