Welcome!

• Namaste (nuh-muh-stay): is a traditional Hindu and Buddhist greeting; a gesture of pressing one’s palms together, fingers pointing upward before the chest and bowing slightly. The literal meaning is, “I bow to the divine in you.” This acknowledgement of spiritual oneness signals genuine respect and goodwill¹.
• Sat Sri Akaal (set-shri-ekal): is a popular greeting used in the Sikh community and a sign of respect. “Sat Sri Akaal” is translated in a variety of ways: “Blessed is the person who says God is truth” or “God is the ultimate truth.”²
• Assalam-o-Alaikum (as-salam-u-alay-koom): “Peace be upon you,” unites Muslims around the world in a common expression of peace and blessings³.
• Salam (sah-lahm): is a shortened version of Assalam-o-Alaikum with a more casual approach to saying hello. It is translated as “peace.”
• Vanakkam (vuh-nuh-kum): is a traditional Tamil greeting meaning "salutations" or "I bow to you." It is used to say hello, as the palms are joined together with a slight bow forward. Vanakkam is a greeting that conveys respect and goodwill.

In this course, you will build on your understanding of cultural sensitivity, cultural safety and cultural humility – concepts explored in the foundational Dementia and culture course. By exploring factors that may shape South Asian responses to dementia – including perspectives on health, aging and dementia, as well as practices that support wellness, healthy aging and dementia care – you will better understand the perspectives of the people you care for.

Intended audience

This course is designed for staff who work with South Asian people and families affected by dementia, South Asian colleagues and partner organizations within the continuing care sector. The continuing care sector includes home care, independent living, assisted living and long-term care.

Pre-requisite

Participants are expected to have completed the Dementia and culture course before starting this course. Please refer to the course library in the online campus if you have not yet completed this course.