Supporting People with Learning Disabilities and Dementia Self-study Guide

As people with learning disabilities grow older, we must ensure that support and services are geared to meet their changing physical and mental health needs. In particular, people with a learning disability and dementia should have control over the services they receive, maintain supportive relationships, and remain in their own accommodation if appropriate and desired. In line with these priorities, this guide promotes holistic support that will maintain abilities and provide services that fit the individual rather than expecting the person to fit the service. Each section is structured around a topic, ranging from effective communication to end-of-life planning, and is designed to prompt thinking about practice and skills development. A link is provided to 'Supporting Derek', a short film featuring actors with a learning disability, which provides practical examples of some of the issues and is an essential resource for completing some of the activities. A copy of this guide is also included in the wider 'Supporting People with Learning Disabilities and Dementia' training pack.