Let’s be real: dementia care isn’t just a textbook topic. It’s one of the most emotional, challenging, and rewarding parts of healthcare—and our students need more than just definitions and facts.
They need real-world skills and a deep understanding of what residents with dementia are going through.
That’s exactly why I put together this 4-hour dementia care training program. It’s a mix of interactive online learning, ready-to-go printable activities, and hands-on simulations.
Best of all? Everything’s student-friendly and designed to actually hold their attention.
Here’s how I break it down.
Start with 2 Online Trainings from the Alzheimer’s Association (1 Hour)
These two free online courses are a game-changer. They’re created by the Alzheimer’s Association, and both include:
- Timed slides (students can’t skip ahead!)
- Audio narration with closed captions (great for students with reading difficulties)
A certificate of completion (which your students can use for their portfolios)
Each module takes about 30 minutes, and they really help students get what dementia is—and how it impacts both the brain and behavior.
Here are the two modules: (click on each title to go to the trainings)
You can have students complete these on their own devices (with headphones), or work through them together as a class. They can even view the modules on their phones (which means they would make perfect “make up” assignments).
Then Use Two Interactive, Print-and-Go TpT Resources (3 Hours)
Now it’s time to dig deeper—and get students actively involved.
These two Teachers Pay Teachers resources make teaching dementia care super easy and engaging.
Resource 1: Reality Orientation & Validation Therapy
This bundle introduces two common communication approaches used in dementia care: reality orientation and validation therapy.
It includes:
- A student-friendly slide deck
- Worksheets and note-catchers
- Task cards for review or group work
How I use it:
Break the class into small chunks.
Teach a few slides, pause for discussion, and have students work through the worksheets.
Use the task cards as a station activity by placing each task card on a table top or even on the wall.
Students will move individually or with a partner from card to card, reading the scenario and deciding how to handle the situation.
Cue higher level thinking!
🕒 Time needed: 1.5 hours
Resource 2: Dementia Simulations & Role Plays
This is where things really click for students. The role-play scenarios help them practice how to interact with residents who are confused, frustrated, or scared.
It includes:
- A ready-to-go lesson plan
- Scenario cards
- Reflection sheets for debriefing
Why it works:
Students get to step into both roles—caregiver and resident. It’s powerful.
They start to understand the emotional side of dementia and how their approach can make all the difference.
🕒 Time needed: 1.5 hours
Why This Training Works
Let’s face it—some lessons stick with students, and others… don’t.
But this one? This one sticks.
✅ It blends online learning with interactive classwork
✅ It’s accessible for students who struggle with reading
✅ It builds empathy and confidence
✅ It meets a real workplace need—dementia care is everywhere in healthcare
Plus, your students walk away with two completion certificates, tons of real-world practice, and a much stronger understanding of how to care for someone living with dementia.
Ready to Make Dementia Care Click for Your Students?
Start planning your 4-hour dementia training today using these ready-to-go resources and powerful online tools.
Your students will walk away more confident, more compassionate, and better prepared for the realities of healthcare.
Grab the TpT resources now, assign the free Alzheimer’s Association modules, and watch your students grow.
Have questions or want to share how it went in your classroom?
Drop a comment or send me a message—I’d love to hear from you!
Need more engaging resources for your training program? Click the picture below!
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Thank you so much for the kind words! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the layout and finding it easy to use—that means a lot! If you’d like to stay in the loop with more classroom ideas and free resources, be sure to join my email list by clicking the picture at the bottom of the page. Hope to see you there!