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Dementia Care Workshops | Positive Approach to Care Training | Every Moment Matters

Workshops & Classes

Learn Skills That Make a Real Difference

Hands-on learning in Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care®

These aren't traditional lecture-based classes where you sit and take notes. These are hands-on, experiential learning opportunities where you'll practice techniques, engage in simulations, and discover approaches that actually work in real-life situations.

Every workshop is grounded in Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care® (PAC)—a globally recognized, evidence-based framework that focuses on working with what remains, preserving dignity, and creating genuine connection.

Available for: Care partners and family members • Healthcare professionals and caregivers • Community members wanting to understand dementia better • Organizations seeking staff training
Formats: Online • In-Person • Custom

[Heather facilitating a workshop with engaged participants (shot from behind participants so faces aren't identifiable). Warm, inviting classroom or community setting.]
PAC® Certified
[Workshop participants practicing hand-under-hand technique together (backs to camera for privacy), or small group discussion in circle formation.]

Why Hands-On Learning Changes Everything

Understanding dementia isn't just about gathering information—it's about experiencing what it might feel like, practicing new approaches, and building muscle memory for techniques you can use immediately.

In these workshops, you'll:

  • Experience simulations that build empathy and understanding
  • Practice physical techniques with real-time feedback
  • Discuss challenges with others who truly understand
  • Learn from videos, demonstrations, and group activities
  • Leave with tools you can use the very next day

You won't just learn about Positive Approach to Care—you'll experience it, practice it, and understand how to apply it to your unique situation.

Available Workshops

Choose the workshop that meets your current needs

Available ONLINE via Zoom
Available IN-PERSON in Comox Valley

Positive Approach to Care: Typical vs. A-Typical Aging

Workshop Overview: This foundational workshop helps you understand and recognize the crucial differences between typical aging (what we all experience as we get older) and a-typical aging (changes caused by dementia and other brain conditions).

When you can recognize these differences, you can adjust your expectations, modify your approach, and provide support that actually helps rather than frustrates.

What You'll Learn:

  • Understanding the Differences: Learn to distinguish between normal age-related changes and signs of dementia. Not every forgotten name or misplaced item means dementia—but knowing the difference matters.
  • Matching Help to Abilities: Discover how to match your helping behaviors to your person's needs and retained abilities. This promotes their sense of control and self-direction rather than creating dependence or resistance.
  • Addressing Common Issues: Explore typical issues that occur throughout the progression of dementia and learn practical strategies for each stage.
  • Video Examples & Discussion: Watch real-world examples and engage in group discussions about what you're seeing and experiencing in your own life.

Who Should Attend: Care partners just beginning the journey • Family members wanting to understand what's happening • Healthcare professionals seeking foundational knowledge • Anyone curious about brain changes and aging

Duration: [PLACEHOLDER - Need from Heather] | Investment: [PLACEHOLDER - Need pricing] | What to Bring: Just yourself and an open mind. All materials provided.

IN-PERSON ONLY (hands-on practice required)

Positive Approach to Care: Positive Physical Approach

Why In-Person? This workshop requires hands-on practice with direct guidance and feedback. You'll be practicing physical techniques, and that simply can't be done effectively through a screen. This is where learning becomes muscle memory.

Workshop Overview: This transformational workshop focuses on Positive Approach to Care's care partnering techniques, including Positive Physical Approach (PPA) and Hand-Under-Hand methods.

These aren't just techniques—they're a complete shift in how you approach and support someone experiencing brain changes. You'll move from "dealing with behavior" to creating a positive, caring environment where connection becomes possible.

What You'll Learn:

  • Positive Physical Approach (PPA): Learn how to approach someone in a way that reduces anxiety and builds trust. Your physical presence, positioning, and movement matter more than you realize.
  • Hand-Under-Hand Technique: Master this gentle, respectful method of providing physical assistance. Instead of taking over tasks, you'll learn to guide and support while preserving the person's sense of control and dignity.
  • Reading Body Language: Understand what you're seeing in someone's posture, tension, and movement—and how to respond appropriately.
  • Creating Connection Through Touch: Discover how thoughtful, appropriate touch can calm the nervous system and build trust.
  • Practical Application: Practice these techniques with partners in the workshop. Receive feedback. Build confidence. Leave ready to use these skills immediately.

Who Should Attend: Care partners providing hands-on daily care • Professional caregivers in home or facility settings • Family members assisting with bathing, dressing, eating, or mobility • Anyone who provides physical support to someone with dementia

Duration: [PLACEHOLDER] | Investment: [PLACEHOLDER] | What to Wear: Comfortable clothing you can move in. You'll be practicing physical techniques.

IN-PERSON ONLY

Positive Approach to Care: Teepa's GEMS® - Using Skills That Make a Difference

Workshop Overview: This powerful workshop introduces you to Teepa Snow's GEMS® dementia classification model—a dignified, respectful framework for understanding the different states of ability someone with dementia might experience.

Rather than focusing on deficits and loss, the GEMS® model uses the metaphor of precious jewels to describe different states of being. This shift in perspective changes everything about how you understand and support someone living with dementia.

About the GEMS® Model: The GEMS® framework compares different states of brain function to six precious jewels:

  • đź’Ž Sapphire - Typical aging
  • đź’Ž Diamond - Early changes, high functioning
  • đź’Ž Emerald - Mild dementia, maintaining abilities with support
  • đź’Ž Amber - Moderate dementia, needs more guidance
  • đź’Ž Ruby - Advancing dementia, sensory-focused
  • đź’Ž Pearl - Late-stage, comfort-focused care

What You'll Learn:

  • Understanding Each Gem State: Learn the characteristics, abilities, and needs associated with each state. Recognize which gem someone might be experiencing right now.
  • Adjusting Your Approach: Discover how to modify your expectations, communication style, and level of support based on their current state. What works for a Diamond won't work for a Ruby—and that's okay.
  • Communication Strategies: Learn specific communication techniques that work for each gem state. How you speak, what you say, and how you ask questions all matter.
  • Hands-On Care Behaviors: Practice physical approaches appropriate for each state. The right touch, positioning, and assistance change as someone moves through the gem states.
  • The Core Principle: Understand that people living with dementia—when care is done WITH them rather than TO them, and when provided with the right environment and support—can still shine.

Who Should Attend: Care partners at any stage of the journey • Healthcare professionals wanting deeper framework • Anyone caring for someone experiencing dementia • Family members seeking comprehensive understanding

Duration: [PLACEHOLDER] | Investment: [PLACEHOLDER] | What to Bring: Open mind, comfortable clothing, willingness to practice and engage.

Upcoming Sessions

Register for an upcoming workshop or get notified when new dates are added

[Dynamic section pulling from Kajabi events/calendar]

Each listing shows: Workshop name • Date & time • Format (Online or In-Person) • Location (if in-person) • Available spots remaining (optional) • [Register Now] button

Or if no workshops currently scheduled:

New workshop dates are being added regularly. Join the newsletter to be the first notified when registration opens for upcoming sessions.

Custom Workshops for Your Team

All workshops can be customized and brought directly to your organization, care facility, or community group.

Perfect for:

  • Long-term care facilities and memory care units
  • Home care agencies and caregiver teams
  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities
  • Community organizations and support groups
  • Corporate wellness programs
  • Faith communities and service organizations

Delivery Options:

  • In-Person: I travel to your location for full-team training
  • Online: Virtual delivery for distributed teams
  • Hybrid: Combination approach for maximum flexibility

Benefits of Group Training:

  • Cost-effective for multiple team members
  • Builds shared language and approach across your organization
  • Can be scheduled at times that work for your team
  • Customized to address your specific challenges and population

Investment: Group rates and custom pricing available based on workshop selection, group size, and location.

Questions About Workshops?

Do I need any prior knowledge or experience?

No! Workshops are designed for people at all levels—from those brand new to dementia care to experienced professionals deepening their skills. I meet you where you are.

Can I attend with my spouse, partner, or family member?

Absolutely! Many people find it valuable to attend together. You'll learn as a team and develop a shared understanding and language for approaching care.

What should I bring to an in-person workshop?

Just bring yourself and an open mind. I provide all materials, handouts, and resources. For hands-on workshops, wear comfortable clothing you can move in.

Are workshops recorded? Can I access them later?

In-person workshops are not recorded to protect participant privacy and create a safe learning space. Some online workshops may be recorded for registrants only, but participation and discussion portions remain live-only.

Are continuing education units (CEUs) available for healthcare professionals?

[PLACEHOLDER - If yes: "Yes! Healthcare professionals can receive X CEUs for attending. Certificates provided upon completion." If no: "Not at this time, but workshops provide valuable professional development and skill-building."]

What's your cancellation policy?

[PLACEHOLDER - Need Heather's specific policy. Example: "If you need to cancel, please notify me at least 48 hours in advance for a full refund or credit toward a future workshop. Cancellations within 48 hours may be transferable but not refundable."]

I'm interested but not sure which workshop to start with. Can you help?

Absolutely! If you're brand new to Positive Approach to Care, I'd recommend starting with "Typical vs. A-Typical Aging" as a foundation. From there, you can choose based on your specific needs. Feel free to contact me and we can discuss which workshop would serve you best.

More Questions?

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Ready to Learn Skills That Change Everything?

These workshops aren't just about information—they're about transformation. The skills you learn here will change how you approach, communicate with, and support someone experiencing brain changes.

Whether you're just beginning this journey or you've been walking it for years, there's always something new to discover about connection, dignity, and what remains possible.

Riley and I look forward to learning alongside you.

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