Welcome

About this course

People living with dementia attend optical services for sight tests, repairs, collections, adjustments, frame selection, pre-screening, reminders and reassurance. Support staff have a direct effect on whether these contacts are calm, respectful and safe.

This course is for optical assistants, reception and admin staff, retail and dispensing support staff, practice managers, locums, temporary staff and other optical support workers. It focuses on practical actions within support roles. It does not train staff to diagnose dementia, assess capacity on their own, interpret clinical findings or decide how urgently to refer.

The course draws on dementia, optical and accessible-communication guidance. It concentrates on everyday tasks: noticing needs, adjusting communication, preparing appointments, involving companions appropriately, protecting privacy, recording helpful adjustments and escalating concerns.

Why this course matters

• Vision and dementia interact: sight, perception, memory and communication can affect how a person uses optical services.
• Small adjustments help: calmer speech, fewer choices, written reminders and quieter spaces can reduce avoidable distress.
• Support staff are often the first contact: booking calls, reception conversations, collections and repairs commonly reveal when someone is struggling.
• Companions need careful handling: carers can be essential, but the patient should remain central where possible.
• Sudden change matters: new confusion, distress or reduced alertness should not be dismissed as long-term dementia without further assessment.

A simple learner spine

• Notice: look for needs in communication, access, memory, orientation or signs of distress.
• Slow down: allow extra time and avoid rushing or testing the person.
• Simplify: use short explanations, one step at a time, and offer fewer choices.
• Support choice: involve carers appropriately while keeping the patient central.
• Record what helps: note practical adjustments in the approved place.
• Escalate change: sudden confusion, safeguarding, consent or safety concerns need prompt action.

By the end of the course you should be better able to support people living with dementia in optical practice with patience, respect and safer escalation.