This training program aims to provide eyecare professionals with the knowledge and techniques to confidently provide dementia-friendly eye examinations and eyecare. This addresses learning needs we identified during our research about provision of eyecare for people living with dementia.

 

Optometrists told us that they wanted to know more about dementia, and how to adapt their approach to accommodate different levels of cognitive impairment. Addressing these learning needs helps optometrists provide high-quality eyecare to people living with dementia, maximising vision for daily activities to reduce falls risk and maintain independence.

 

Dementia Advocates (people with lived experience of dementia or being a carer) helped us develop this course: Natalie Ive, Karen and Kerin Glennen, and Elena Donati all reviewed the course objectives, derived from our research interviews with people living with dementia, carers and optometrists. They also reviewed quotes and case scenarios to ensure they sensitively represent people with dementia and carers. All case scenarios have been developed using the Alzheimer Europe Guidelines for the ethical and inclusive portrayal of dementia and people with dementia.