Champions of Care- Mairead McKeown

As her mother’s needs became more complex, Mairead sought ways to better understand and care for her. That’s when she found the Insights Into Dementia Family Carer Training, a program designed to empower family carers with knowledge, strategies, and community.

???The First Signs of Change Mairead noticed the changes gradually: "Mam became obsessed with knitting nativity figures, started forgetting things, repeating herself, and found it hard to finish sentences. She also grew less interested in talking with loved ones. My dad reached out to our GP, which was the first step in seeking a diagnosis."

???The Challenges of Caring Like many family carers, Mairead grappled with the unknown: "You don’t know what you don’t know. I found myself asking, am I responding in the way she needs? Am I missing something? Has anyone been through this before? It was emotionally overwhelming and left me hungry for knowledge and guidance."

???The Power of Learning The Insights Into Dementia Family Carer Training?changed everything. Through the course, Mairead gained practical strategies that transformed her caregiving approach, including:

• Reminiscence Therapy: "I completed Life Story work with Mam, which brought us so much joy. I also introduced a baby doll because she adored babies all her life. This small but meaningful therapy gave her immense comfort."

• Effective Communication Techniques: "I learned how to slow down, show patience, and understand the emotions behind her behavior. These techniques helped us connect on a deeper level."

• Support Networks: "I picked up tips from fellow learners, and we stayed in touch, sharing experiences and solving challenges together."

Moments of Joy Amidst Challenges "The course helped us find moments of joy and satisfaction, even during difficult times. We were more at ease in each other’s company, and I felt confident that I was meeting Mam’s needs in the best way possible."

??Mairead’s Advice for Family Carers "Just do it. Enroll in the course. It may be the greatest gift you can give your loved one and yourself. At every stage of a person’s dementia journey, there’s more to learn and adapt to. This course equips you with the tools, knowledge, and community to navigate those challenges."

???Why It Matters

At The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, we know that caring for a loved one with dementia can be overwhelming. Insights Into Dementia Family Carer Training?is designed to empower carers like Mairead with the knowledge and strategies to provide compassionate, informed care while maintaining their own well-being.

???If you’re a family carer, or know someone who is, consider joining our next course.

Learn more about our Family Carer Training courses at Family Carer Training - Alzheimer?

Together, we can create better outcomes for families affected by dementia.

#DementiaCare #DementiaSupport?#DementiaServices