University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: 200 notional hours of learning time. Delivered by distance learning.

This module provides an introduction to several psychological models of dementia care, i.e. biomedical, person-centred, palliative and supportive. The student is encouraged to consider the care model that is in use in his/her own workplace and to reflect on the impact of this approach from the perspectives of people with dementia, family members, professional caregivers and management. The module then explores how one might meet the psychological needs of individuals with dementia and their caregivers from each perspective. Students will then go on to learn about the psychology of the self in dementia care in terms of those with a diagnosis and their caregivers. The self will be examined in terms of its manifestation, psychological threats to self and how the self can be maintained in both caregivers and people with dementia. Psychological perspectives on relationship-building with individuals with dementia will then be explored. Students will be encouraged to reflect on their own experiences of caring for individuals with dementia and of forming relationships with them.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 200 notional hours of learning time. Delivered by distance learning.

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%


Re-assessment: Resubmission of the failed pieces of work.

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr M P Ellis
Module teaching staff: Dr M Ellis
Module coordinator email mpe2@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• identify and describe four different models of dementia care
• explain how these models impact on individuals with dementia and those who care for them
• identify the psychological needs of individuals with dementia and their caregivers
• "describe how the self is manifested, threatened and maintained in dementia care for both individuals with dementia and their carers"
• explain the impacts of relationship-building with individuals with dementia on those with a diagnosis and their carers