Aged Care Association: Lesson series
Coping with mood & behaviour changes and unmet needs in older adults
This webinar focused on coping with mood and behaviour changes in older adults, addressing unmet needs with empathy and insight. We explored the challenges and solutions for understanding and managing these changes, emphasizing the importance of caregiver resilience and staff well-being.
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Why is this course important
Mood and behaviour changes in older adults can be complex and may reflect unmet physical, emotional or environmental needs. This course helps participants identify triggers and positive “glimmers”, use non-pharmacological approaches to support psychological wellbeing, and apply effective communication strategies within a dementia-friendly environment. It also reinforces the importance of caregiver resilience and staff wellbeing when responding to challenging situations.
Course Lessons
Meet the instructor
Orquidea Tamayo Mortera
Orquidea Tamayo Mortera is a Registered Diversional and Recreational therapist, working across the aged care, mental health and disability sectors. She has instituted programmes such as Cycling Without Age and Baby Buddies, where parents bring their young babies into rest homes. Tamayo Mortera has promoted the training and education of diversional and recreational therapists, training more than 1000 therapists. Tamayo Mortera assisted in getting both the New Zealand Diploma and the bachelor's degree in diversional and recreational therapy recognised by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.
From 2018 to 2025 Tamayo Mortera was the national president of the New Zealand Society of Diversional and Recreational Therapists. She is currently the co-chair of Allied Health Aotearoa New Zealand, a forum for representation of allied health professionals.
Patrick Jones - Course author
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