The Framework

DemTalk has a three-level framework: 

Level One:

A statement of beliefs and principles that provides a basic theory that guides and informs the DemTalk Skill Sets in Level Two.

Level Two:

DemTalk Skill Sets consisting of: 

• The 'What’ – a definition of the skill set (for example, what do we mean by ‘environmental factors’?)
• The 'Why’ – a reason for including the skill set in DemTalk (for example, the impacts of environmental factors on communication involving people living with dementia).
• The 'How’ – advice on helpful communication styles relating to the skill set.

Level Two guides Level Three. 

Level Three:

Actual communication involving people living with dementia, which can be applied to: 

• Individual care plans for people living with dementia
• Carer guidance and training in different contexts for both informal and formal carers 

The diagram below illustrates the oversal shape and content of DemTalk.

The Rationale

There is considerable academic literature relating to communication practices involving people living with dementia. The guidance arising from this, however, is rarely used in actual interactions between people living with dementia and their carers.

There are many examples of good practice in care, and DemTalk aims to help bring together and share these.

This three-level framework makes clear what is believed to be best practice and shows the principles and beliefs that underpin the content.

The framework also allows for a structured discussion of best-practice between its users.

This encourages adaption of DemTalk, to fit existing and developing needs, through time and across different care, social and cultural environments.