Improving training for carers and healthcare professionals
By James Carrick1,2, Grace Wei1,2, Michelle Kelly4,3, Kirrie Ballard1,3, Skye McDonald5 & Fiona Kumfor1,2
1The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, Australia
2The University of Sydney, School of Psychology, Australia
3The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, Australia
4The University of Newcastle, School of Science, Australia
5The University of New South Wales, School of Psychology, Australia
Caring for someone living with dementia can be rewarding, but it also comes with significant emotional, physical and mental challenges. Behaviour changes such as aggression, anxiety, hallucinations, apathy or social withdrawal can leave carers feeling distressed and unsure how to respond. Researchers behind the Carers Way Ahead – Dementia program say many families feel unsupported after diagnosis and need more practical guidance to help them manage the day-to-day realities of caring for people living with dementia.
The hidden impact of behavioural changes
Behavioural and psychological symptoms are common in dementia, with up to 90 per cent of people living with dementia experiencing at least one of these symptoms. These changes can include agitation, impulsive behaviour, anxiety, communication difficulties and hallucinations, often placing enormous strain on carers and families.
Researchers found many carers felt unprepared for these changes. While families often received information about diagnosis and medication, they reported limited ongoing support for managing behaviour at home. Many described feeling isolated, overwhelmed and uncertain about what strategies might help.
The Carers Way Ahead – Dementia program was developed in response to these concerns. Created through a co-design process involving carers themselves, the online program focuses on providing practical, easy-to-understand tools that reflect real-life caregiving experiences.
Using the ABC model to understand behaviour
One of the key strategies taught in the program is the “ABC model”, which helps carers better understand the causes of behaviour changes and how to respond effectively.
The model looks at:
- Antecedents — what happened before the behaviour
- Behaviour — what the person did
- Consequences — what happened afterwards
Rather than seeing behaviour as random or deliberately difficult, the ABC approach encourages carers to view it as a form of communication.
For example, a person living with dementia may become agitated after being told not to touch or move kitchen appliances while they try to help someone cooking. Instead of reacting only to the anger, carers are encouraged to consider possible triggers such as boredom, confusion or overstimulation. Small changes to the environment or routine may help reduce stress and improve interactions.
Flexible support for carers across Australia
The self-paced online program includes modules on aggression, anxiety, communication difficulties, hallucinations and self-care for carers. Researchers say accessibility was a major priority, particularly for carers in regional or remote areas who may struggle to access in-person services.
An Australia-wide pilot of the program is now underway, with researchers hoping the training could eventually also support healthcare professionals and students working in dementia care. Ultimately, the aim is to help carers feel more confident, supported and better equipped to care for people living with dementia.
You can find out more about the ABC model by subscribing to the Australian Journal of Dementia Care.