AAU Organizes a Training Workshop Titled “Pioneers in the Care of Patients with Memory Disorders”

Building on the noble vision of Her Royal Highness Princess Muna Al Hussein, ambassador to Alzheimer’s Disease International, and following Al-Ahliyya Amman University’s hosting of the National Dialogue on Alzheimer’s disease in Jordan under her royal patronage last April, the activities of the workshop “Pioneers in the Care of Patients with Memory Disorders” opened with a recorded address by Her Royal Highness on the occasion of World Alzheimer’s Day, in which she stressed the importance of raising awareness of the disease and supporting care efforts for those affected. The workshop was organized by the Women’s Health Center and the Health Training Center at the Faculty of Nursing at Al-Ahliyya Amman University, with wide participation by specialists and health and nursing staff from inside and outside the University. The initiative stemmed from the need to enhance knowledge and skills in dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and memory disorders, especially in light of the noticeable global and local rise in prevalence and the major implications of population aging and the growing number of older adults. The workshop aimed to equip participants with core concepts about the disease, pathways for early diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, and psychosocial support for caregivers, in addition to the latest educational approaches and practical skills that help improve the quality of health care provided to this group of patients. The program covered multiple themes, including an introduction to Alzheimer’s disease and its health and social impact, a specialized session on symptoms, stages, and early detection, hands-on training in memory assessment methods and related interactive activities, and a review of approaches to supporting caregivers and managing the psychological stress associated with caregiving. It also included a component on principles of effective teaching and learning to enable participants to transfer knowledge to colleagues in their workplaces and to build networks for cooperation and exchange of expertise that sustain professional development in the field of caring for patients with memory disorders. A distinguished group of experts took part in delivering the workshop. Prof. Muna Al Nsoor, Director of the Women’s Health Center at the University, presented several lectures on the global burden of dementia and the importance of community awareness. Dr. Mohammad Abu Kawan, a psychiatrist, discussed the types, stages, and symptoms of dementia and the misconceptions surrounding it. Consultant Lynn Al Madanat delivered a specialized training session on supporting caregivers and stress management, while Dr. Najhla Mishal, a clinical psychologist, led practical training in memory assessment, interactive activities, and role play to apply assessment and referral skills in practice. Ms. Manal Al Bashir, an expert in nursing education and quality management, introduced the latest educational and training methods that enhance nursing workforce competence and support continuous learning and professional development. In his opening remarks, Prof. Khaldoun Hamdan welcomed the workshop presenters and the esteemed audience, including nurses from the Ministry of Health, representatives of the Royal Medical Services, and attendees from Al Istiklal Hospital, the Specialty Hospital, King Abdullah University Hospital, and the University of Jordan Hospital, as well as faculty members from the Faculty of Nursing at Al-Ahliyya Amman University. He affirmed that such workshops provide an important boost to the health sector and contribute to developing national competencies capable of delivering comprehensive and effective care for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and memory disorders. The workshop concluded with participants receiving attendance and participation certificates accredited by the Jordanian Nursing Council for three hours of continuing professional development, reflecting the University’s commitment to supporting continuing education and upgrading the skills of health professionals in line with national and international standards in health care.