Course Description:
This course is designed to equip both formal and informal caregivers of individuals with Huntington’s Disease (HD) with the essential knowledge and skills for providing comprehensive care.
It covers the neurologist’s role in managing HD from diagnosis through end-of-life care. In addition to educating caregivers about the nature of HD symptoms, the course emphasises practical strategies for symptom management at each disease stage. It highlights the importance of expert care, continuous learning, and family involvement, while focusing on preserving patient autonomy.
By addressing the evolving challenges of HD, the course ensures caregivers are prepared to support patients with empathy, flexibility, and informed decision-making.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the Role of the Neurologist in HD Care
○ Identify the key responsibilities of neurologists in diagnosing, managing, and supporting individuals with HD. - Recognize the Different Stages of HD
○ Describe the progression of HD and its impact on motor, cognitive, and psychiatric functions at each stage of the disease. - Identify HD Symptoms and Implement Effective Symptom Management Strategies:
○ Describe HD symptoms and apply practical strategies to manage motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms at various stages of HD. - Support Families in Managing HD:
○ Offer strategies to help family members manage the physical, emotional, and logistical challenges of caring for a loved one with HD. - Address End-of-Life Issues in HD:
○ Navigate ethical considerations and provide guidance on end-of-life care, including palliative care and advanced care planning. - Develop Expertise in HD Neurology:
○ Understand the key features to become an expert in HD care. - Learn from Personal Testimonies:
○ Gain insights from personal testimonies of HD family members and healthcare professionals to better understand the human impact of HD and effective care strategies.
