Understanding Dementia First-hand with the Virtual Dementia Bus
Debbie, the Learning and Development Co-Ordinator from Home Instead Ilkley, took part in the Virtual Dementia Bus training. Her experience was eye-opening and emotional.
Dementia is a term used to describe a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. With over 55 million people affected worldwide, it’s a condition that touches many lives. The speed at which dementia progresses and the symptoms people experience can vary greatly, making it difficult to predict how an individual’s condition will develop. This is why understanding dementia and having the right skills to support those living with it is so crucial.
At Home Instead Ilkley, all our Care Professionals undergo specialist dementia training and are highly skilled at supporting clients who live with the condition. One unique training tool we have used recently is the Virtual Dementia Bus. This high-tech experience offers both professionals and family members a deeper insight into what it’s like to live with dementia. For anyone involved in dementia care, it’s a “must-do” experience.
Recently, Debbie the Learning and Development Co-Ordinator from Home Instead Ilkley, took part in the Virtual Dementia Bus training, and her experience was eye-opening and emotional.
Debbie’s Experience
The Dementia Bus is a fully immersive experience. Participants are given cumbersome gloves, glasses which mimic how dementia impairs vision and shoes with spikes in making it difficult to walk.
“I hadn’t a clue what it would be like, but I was really looking forward to it,” says Debbie. “I put the gloves, shoes and glasses on and immediately I felt so alone, uncomfortable and totally helpless. I couldn’t get my bearings. I couldn’t hear the instructions and so to help, I ended up holding hands with some of the other participants. I was isolated. My anxiety started to go through the roof, but holding hands with someone gave me that human contact and reassurance.”
“I found myself stroking a cuddly teddy, which helped me calm down. But when they took the teddy away, my anxiety spiked again.”
“I was asked to do a simple task—folding towels—but with the gloves, I couldn’t fold them properly. It was frustrating. It was something so basic, yet I couldn’t complete it. I could feel my frustration building, and I realised how much support and help I would need if I were living with dementia.”
What You Need to Know When Caring for Someone with Dementia
Debbie’s experience sharply highlights several important aspects of dementia care and what those caring with dementia need to know:
- Physical touch, comfort, and reassurance: Holding a person’s hand can provide them with comfort, reassurance, and a sense of connection. Similarly, offering a soft toy or item to stroke can help reduce anxiety and create a calming effect.
- Inclusion: Always talk to your family member or client about what’s happening around them. Explain where they are going, who is with them, and what is happening. This will help reduce confusion and fear.
- Tasks: Provide manageable, realistic tasks. People with dementia can benefit from completing simple tasks, but they may need assistance. Offering help without overwhelming them is key.
- Colours: Alzheimer’s can cause vision to be impaired. It can be difficult for those with Alzheimer’s to see similar colours, for example, water in a glass. Vibrant and contrasting colours can help with this Use brightly coloured cups and plates or provide drinks, like blackcurrant juice instead of clear water, to make things more visible.
- Empathy: People with dementia may often feel scared, anxious, or confused. Empathy and gentle support can help them feel more comfortable and understood.
Debbie’s Final Thoughts
“Out of all the training I’ve had, this was the best. I feel like I truly understand what dementia does to a person now. It’s completely changed how I will approach training my Care Professionals. I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned with my colleagues.”
We are so proud at Home Instead Ilkley of the high level of care we provide for our clients. Due to our experience and training, we understand that every client’s needs are unique, especially when it comes to caring for someone living with dementia. Our team is committed to offering the highest quality of personalised care, ensuring that our clients feel supported, understood, and comfortable in their own homes.
If you or someone you know is living with dementia and could benefit from compassionate, expert care, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office for a call. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Call Us: 01943 66 21 88
