This course is currently taking a break with no upcoming dates scheduled.
Enhance Quality of Life Through Compassionate, Person-Centred Touch
Dementia care is evolving. As our population ages, dementia has become one of the most significant healthcare challenges of our time. Increasingly, professionals in health and social care are recognising the value of holistic approaches—such as massage therapy—as essential complements to conventional medical treatment.
Research continues to show that massage can significantly ease many of the emotional and physical challenges experienced by people living with dementia. This FHT-accredited course offers a unique and rewarding opportunity to develop the skills and confidence to support this client group with empathy, sensitivity, and care.
About the Course
This training is designed for qualified therapists, carers, family members, and support workers who wish to bring the benefits of massage to people living with dementia—whether in clinical, residential, community, or private practice settings.
You’ll become part of a forward-thinking, person-centred care movement, providing meaningful and effective support to one of our most vulnerable populations.
What You’ll Learn
- Understanding Dementia: Definitions, causes, and symptoms
- Types and Stages of Dementia
- Progression & Current Treatment options
- Client-centred Care principles
- Therapist self-care, boundaries, and caution
- How to communicate effectively and ensure the person is heard
- Responding to and understanding behaviours that challenge
- Working collaboratively with family and care staff
- Consent & capacity considerations in dementia care
- Latest research on dementia and touch-based therapies
- Preparing for treatment in a safe and respectful manner
- A practical massage routine adapted to suit individual needs
- Adapting massage for treatment side effects and client ability
- And much more…
Course Format
- Pre-course Reading & Study
- One in-person training day at The Glasgow School of Massage
- One case study treatment, completed at home and written up for feedback
This course includes both theory and practical elements, carefully designed to suit a wide range of professionals and carers.
Your Tutors
Lynn Gatherer – A specialist in dementia care, Lynn brings years of hands-on experience working within care home environments, delivering massage and holistic support tailored to the needs of older adults and people living with dementia.
Rachel Black – An experienced clinical massage therapist and lecturer, Rachel has worked extensively in hospice care and is co-founder of The Glasgow School of Massage.
Together, Lynn and Rachel bring deep expertise, compassion, and practical insight to this specialised course.
Assessment & Support
You will be assessed through both informal and formal methods throughout the training.
Course includes unlimited post-course mentoring via email or phone to support your learning journey and implementation in practice.
Course Fee: £200
Includes all course materials, resources, and lifetime access to email/phone mentoring.
On-Site Training Available
We offer bespoke staff training for care homes, organisations, and colleges.
For group bookings or institutional training, please contact:
📩 info@theglasgowschoolofmassage.com
The Glasgow School of Massage 