Recently HealthySimulation.com spoke with Virtual Dementia Tour’s Clinical Manager Melora Jackson about an amazing learning tool that enables clinical educators to help patients, family members, working professionals and new students experience some of the challenges of living with Dementia. The Clinical Simulation “Tour” simulates the effects of aging and dementia to give families, caregivers, and the general public an opportunity to walk in their shoes. This life-changing experience results in a better understanding of the physical and mental challenges faced by those living with dementia, which empowers us to provide them with better care and support. Best of all, all proceeds go back into supporting the charitable-based organization Second Wind Dreams, which supports those suffering from Dementia with a plethora of experiences, resources, and more. Let’s check it out!
The Virtual Dementia Tour (VDT) uses patented sensory tools and instruction based on research conducted by P.K. Beville, M.S., a specialist in geriatrics and the founder of Second Wind Dreams. During a Virtual Dementia Tour experience, trained facilitators guide participants outfitted with patented devices that alter their senses while they try to complete common everyday tasks and exercises. This includes audio headphones, colored sunglasses, special gloves, environmental controls and tasks.
The Tour enables caregivers to experience for themselves the physical and mental challenges those with dementia face, and use the experience to provide better person-centered care. And as suggested above, here’s another special feature: proceeds from the Virtual Dementia Tour are used to fulfill the mission of Second Wind Dreams to make dreams come true for elders who live in long-term care. The truth is that when dementia strikes, it strikes the whole community, not just the individual. The Virtual Dementia Tour was also developed to provide a way for members of the community to have a glimpse into the world of dementia, and then develop their own recommendations for their business, family, or anywhere that dementia is experienced.
Want high-quality dementia training for your student or staff? A Second Wind Dreams VDT Certified Trainer can conduct the Virtual Dementia Tour experience for up to 60 participants per day. They provide state-of-the-art training conducted by a Certified Trainer with multiple training hours through the VDT creator. CEUs are available too for the following disciplines:
- Nursing (RNs, LPNs)
- Long Term Care Administrators
- Activity Professionals
- Registered Dietitians
- Social Work (Georgia and Kentucky only at this time).
Appropriate participants beyond direct clinicians include:
- Emergency first responders
- Police officers
- Fire fighters
- Local businesses
- Community groups
- Houses of worship
Quick facts about the Virtual Dementia Tour:
- Experienced by more than three million people in 20 countries
- Translated into eight languages
- Used by medical schools to simulate dementia for student learning and overall dementia sensitivity
See what effective care looks like through the Inclusive Virtual Dementia Tour Experience what dementia is like with standard care. Experience dementia in a person-centered care environment. Compare the difference and develop strategies of better care based on your personal experience. Changing the Perception of Dementia through Person-Centered Care Conducted by advanced-level Certified Trainers who specialize in person-centered care Provides innovative care approaches Half-day interactive workshop CEU credits are also available!
Studies indicate the majority of hospital staff are not trained to provide specialized care for people with dementia. Second Wind Dreams offers the first Virtual Dementia Tour, specifically created for hospitals too. This Medical Simulation training experience is conducted in your hospital or Emergency Department for all staff by certified Virtual Dementia Tour trainers. Comprehensive debrief of the experience facilitated by Certified Trainers providing practical suggestions specific for dementia care.
Proceeds Help Support to a Great Cause!
This award-winning Dreams program is a powerful way to connect society to a forgotten truth about elders: the truth that age does not erase hopes and dreams. Since 1997, over 10,000 dreams have come true through their Dream program, an average of 6 dreams per day. As each dream is fulfilled, we witness a ripple effect as the impact spreads from the elder to everyone who helped make it a reality. From the simple to the sublime, dreams come true!
What an amazing opportunity for nursing schools, nursing homes, allied health programs, medical schools, civil servants, and hospital professionals looking to better educate and train for those suffering from dementia! A truly unique mental health simulation experience!
