Free dementia training for family carers in Westmeath and Rosscommon
A free training, open to family carers of people living with dementia, is organised by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI). Titled 'Insights into Dementia – Informing and Empowering Family Carers', the course runs for seven weeks on Mondays, beginning August 24, through to October 5, at Athlone Springs Hotel.
There are 64,000 people with dementia in Ireland, and the number of people with the condition is expected to double in the next 25 years to over 150,000 by 2045. The in-person training is designed to support, inform and educate family carers, and is open to anyone caring for or supporting a family member, friend, or neighbour living with dementia.
The training is led by expert ASI tutors and provides practical skills such as understanding dementia progression, improving communication, managing daily routines, and accessing essential supports. Emotional support and opportunities for peer connection are also key elements, helping carers feel more confident and less isolated in their role.
Dr Fergus Timmons of the ASI, said: “We are delighted to invite family carers to our first dementia training course in County Westmeath. Supporting or caring for a person living with dementia can be both rewarding and challenging. As the disease progresses, family members often face new emotional and practical challenges while caring for their loved one.
“This in-person course in Athlone provides family carers with the opportunity to learn more about dementia, gain practical strategies to support day-to-day care, and build confidence in their caring role. The course also offers a supportive environment where carers can share experiences with others in similar situations and can learn from one another.”
The course runs Monday evenings from August 24 to October 5, 7pm to 9.30pm, at Athlone Springs Hotel, Monksland, Co Roscommon, N37 F9T3. Places are limited and early registration is strongly recommended. To apply or learn more, contact 1800 341 341, or email at familycarertraining@alzheimer.ie, or visit www.alzheimer.ie.