Dr. Tan Jit Seng Leads Educational Talk for Disability Care Transport Drivers at AGAPE Village
On April 27, 2024, AGAPE Village hosted the third installment of an essential training session entitled "Transporting Clients with Cognitive Impairment", led by the renowned Dr. Tan Jit Seng. This specialized workshop was designed for drivers involved in the disability care transport service, focusing on enhancing their skills and understanding when managing clients with cognitive impairments, such as dementia.
Dr. Tan Jit Seng, a well-known figure in the field of community and long term home care, brought his vast experience and expertise to the session, aiming to equip drivers with the knowledge and tools necessary for handling the unique challenges presented by clients with cognitive decline and behavioral disruptions.
The session was structured into four comprehensive parts, each addressing critical aspects of dementia care that are directly relevant to the daily responsibilities of transport drivers.
Understanding Dementia
The first segment of the training provided an in-depth look at what dementia is, detailing the medical and psychological aspects of the condition. Dr. Tan explained the various types of dementia, their causes, and the progression of cognitive decline, which set the foundation for the subsequent sections of the workshop.
Prevalence of Dementia
In the second part, Dr. Tan presented current statistics to illustrate the prevalence of dementia both in Singapore and globally. This section highlighted the growing need for specialized care and understanding, emphasizing why such training is crucial for professionals in the transport sector who frequently interact with this vulnerable population.
Recognizing Behavioral Manifestations
The third part of the session focused on the behaviors that drivers might encounter while transporting clients with dementia. Dr. Tan discussed how cognitive impairments could manifest in ways that affect communication, behavior, and physical abilities. This knowledge is vital for drivers to identify and understand the sometimes unpredictable behaviors of clients with dementia.
Management Strategies
The final part of the workshop provided practical tips and strategies for managing the challenging behaviors associated with dementia. Dr. Tan offered advice on how to create a safe and comfortable environment for both the driver and the client. Techniques included how to communicate effectively, ways to de-escalate potentially disruptive situations, and ensuring physical safety during transport.
This training session not only aimed to educate but also to foster empathy and understanding, allowing drivers to see the world from the perspective of those living with cognitive impairments. Dr. Tan used real-life scenarios and interactive discussions to engage the attendees, making the session both informative and relatable.
AGAPE Village, by hosting such events, underscores its commitment to enhancing the quality of care provided to individuals with dementia, ensuring that every interaction they have is handled with knowledge and compassion. The drivers left the session equipped not just with theoretical knowledge, but with practical, actionable strategies that will make a real difference in their daily professional interactions.
This initiative reflects a broader movement towards comprehensive community care, recognizing the critical role transport services play in the lives of those with cognitive impairments. Dr. Tan Jit Seng's workshop is a commendable step forward in enriching the support network for Singapore’s aging population, ensuring that every journey is safe and dignified.
