The Global Challenge of Understanding Dementia unit (CAD121)

Introduction

The rising prevalence of dementia is one of the most significant health, social and economic issues facing the world. The global challenge of dementia will require innovative solutions to improve the lives of people with dementia and their carers. The quality of life of people living with dementia is increased when there is suitable care and in societies that are inclusive and dementia is not stigmatised. These factors are influenced by a dementia literate society, with appropriate knowledge and beliefs about dementia. The unit will examine factors influencing societies knowledge and views about dementia and the role of dementia education in improving the quality of life of people living with dementia and their carers. The unit involves access and participation in the Understanding Dementia Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), one of the most highly rated online courses internationally, designed to increase dementia literacy globally. Through CAD121, you will hear from international leaders from the Wicking Centre and universities across Australia and internationally on dementia, and you will develop an understanding of how this knowledge can influence care. You will also examine how media representations of dementia can positively or negatively influence people’s beliefs about dementia, with an impact on stigma.

Summary

Unit name	The Global Challenge of Understanding Dementia
Unit code	CAD121
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Health Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre
Discipline	Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre
Coordinator	Doctor Jacqueline Leung
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Introductory

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Explain how dementia affects the brain, the person, and associated care needs.
• Analyse current understandings and representations of dementia.
• Explain the role of dementia literacy in meeting the needs of people living with dementia and their carers.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

CAD110|XBR121

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	Online Learning - approx. 10 hours per week.
Assessment	Completion of UD MOOC|Worksheet/Short Answer Questions (10%)|Critique (20%)|Case Study (35%)|Guided Presentation (35%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.