SP-04 Research into Practice: Education for Implementing Namaste Care for People with Advanced Dementia

Introduction Namaste Care is a sensory-based intervention, designed to address the psycho-social needs of individuals living with advanced dementia and approaching end of life (Simard, 2022). Evidence indicates its effectiveness in decreasing agitation and improving quality of life (Latham et al, 2020). The absence of standardised and accessible training however, presents a barrier to its wider adoption across health and social care settings (Salvi et al, 2025). Aims This Marie Curie funded education project aimed to create a practical, evidence informed online training course to support the implementation of Namaste Care. The project had an overarching Aim of developing a practical method for disseminating this approach more widely, to improve care for people with advanced dementia. Methods The interactive and practice-based course was developed collaboratively by a multidisciplinary team, including professionals and individuals with lived experience. The course was piloted with care home staff in the UK, facilitated by an experienced dementia specialist educator. Surveys and a focus group looked at the experience of participants and the Impact of the training in their workplace. Results Survey data collected pre and post course demonstrated improvements in knowledge of dementia, understanding of Namaste Care, and approaches to meeting the spiritual care needs of people with advanced dementia. Participants reported increased confidence in delivering Namaste Care and applying it to end-of-life support. Qualitative feedback highlighted evidence of practical changes implemented, and examples of improvements in residents’ experiences. Conclusion Findings suggest that online training is a viable and effective method for disseminating Namaste Care to support its integration into practice. Impact An evidence-based online education product has been created, that can be delivered to a geographically diverse audience. This course is being offered on a regular basis and links into an ongoing community of practice to encourage long term sustainability of Namaste Care.