FAQ

Training FAQ’s

Who is it for?

The Sonas programme is suitable for older people with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia, and other conditions that bring about communication impairment. This includes those with advanced Parkinson’s, some types of stroke and, occasionally, those who are experiencing extreme social isolation.

How will it help my residents?

Regular attendees have been shown to benefit in terms of improved communication, mood and social engagement. There is also a one-to-one variation of Sonas called SIMS for people who are unable to participate in group activity.

Who can attend the training?

Anyone caring for older people with dementia and with access to a centre to practice the Sonas sessions. This includes Activity Coordinators, Care Assistants, Nurses, Speech & Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists and Directors of Nursing.

What does the training involve?

A 2-day workshop where you will be trained in communication in dementia, and how to lead Sonas group and individual sessions. All resources are provided, including a kit with CDs to use with your own group. Attendance at the 2 training days is essential to become a Sonas practitioner and obtain a certificate of attendance.

What does the training cost?

Attendance at the Sonas Workshop costs €200. A set of Sonas and Anam kits are required for the implementation of the programme. They cost €50 each. If your place of employment already has a Sonas or SIMS kit, there is no need to purchase another.

What commitment is required from my employer?

You must be given time to attend the 2 full days of training and, once trained, to run a Sonas session at least twice a week for your residents (each session lasting approx 1 hour). You will also need another member of staff to help with the session. A successful group requires at least 6 participants.

What does the FETAC module involve?

A 3-day workshop (which includes the basic two-day workshop), an on-site skills demonstration and coursework. Implementation of the Sonas/Anam programme is an integral part of the module. Workshop Days 1 & 2 must be completed at least one month prior to the scheduled FETAC Workshop Day 3 if a person wishes to take the module for that assessment period.

When can I complete the FETAC module?

Sonas aPc processes FETAC candidates in the June and November FETAC Assessment Periods every year. Given the timeframe of the workshop days and the requirement of carrying out eight group sessions, it takes upwards of four months to complete this module.

What level is this FETAC module?

It is a Level 5 module and may be used as one of the eight constituent modules in a FETAC Level 5 Award. However, some FETAC Awards have a restricted choice of modules and if the Sonas aPc module is not on the list, it may not be used as a component module for that award.

What does the module cost?

The module costs €380 to complete. This includes €200 for the two-day Sonas Workshop. Sonas and SIMS kits are not included.