Program Overview
Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA®) in Dementia Care is an innovative dementia care education curriculum based on a person-centred care approach. Designed for people who interact with older adults in the workplace, this workshop is evidence-based, interactive and practical. GPA Certified Coaches will guide participants to fully understand responsive behaviours in order to be able to respond effectively and appropriately in a workplace setting. This program also includes respectful self-protection and gentle redirection techniques for use in situations of risk.
Facilitators

Charmaine Madrigal
Known for her dynamic and interactive facilitation style, Charmaine creates a supportive and inclusive environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas with a genuine passion for bringing people together and creating engaging and productive learning experiences.

Erin Smith
Erin currently serves as the Clinical Learning & Development Coordinator at SJHCG. In this role, she has the opportunity to share her knowledge in a supportive manner, contributing to the professional growth of her colleagues. Additionally, she enjoys the opportunity to engage with clinical staff across the organization, fostering meaningful connections and collaboration. She is known for her commitment to perpetuating a positive influence on staff education, learning and professional development at SJHCG, where she has dedicated over 15 years of service (she started her career at SJHCG fresh out of nursing school). Her tenure encompasses extensive experience in Complex Continuing Care (CCC) and Palliative care. Throughout her journey at SJHCG, she has had the privilege of working across all hospital units, gaining invaluable insights and skills in diverse healthcare settings.

Andrew Mantle
Andrew’s approach to GPA facilitation is grounded in his belief that exceptional dementia care is possible only when care partners have the knowledge, skills, and empathy required to recognize those living with dementia as unique and valuable individuals. Care is further enhanced as staff become aware of how a person’s dementia changes how they make sense of the world and how the way caregivers offer support has a profound impact on those living with dementia.
Who is this for?
Anyone who works or volunteers with older adults in clinical and non-clinical settings.
Outcomes
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
“It’s very informative and makes you reflect on how you are doing […] in regards to handling patients with dementia”
-Program Attendee
Cost
$100
$25
Course Schedule Details
April 3, 2025
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
St. Joseph's Health Centre Guelph, 100 Westmount Rd., Guelph, ON - First Floor Auditorium
April 29, 2025
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
St. Joseph's Health Centre Guelph, 100 Westmount Rd., Guelph, ON - First Floor Auditorium
May 29, 2025
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
St. Joseph's Health Centre Guelph, 100 Westmount Rd., Guelph, ON - First Floor Auditorium