A Roswell-based, international nonprofit is offering a hands-on, virtual experience to those caring for individuals with memory impairments.
At Second Wind Dreams, the Virtual Dementia Tour brings in trained facilitators to guide caregivers through sensory-altering devices as they try to complete everyday tasks.
“We use the VDT to give participants a view of what it is like to have dementia and provide insight into how we can all do a better job of providing care and services in a person-centered way,” VDT Clinical Manager Melora Jackson said. “This insight increases empathy and an understanding of how we all can change our own behavior to increase the quality of life for those living with dementia.”
Current CEO Gwenyth Johnson says caregivers utilizing the tour can include professionals and paraprofessionals, but they may also be family, friends or even community members.
“We utilize a tool that measures person-centered care characteristics of those providing direct care to people living with dementia so that we can demonstrate outcomes of the Virtual Dementia Tour,” Jackson said.
The VDT is an ground-breaking, evidence-based program that builds sensitivity and awareness, allowing for a greater understanding of dementia, Jackson said.
Second Wind Dreams has provided the experience to several organizations including the Atlanta-based Center for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Google, Facebook, and WellStar Health System.
“The VDT has been experienced by more than an estimated three million people in 20 countries,” Jackson said.
Jackson says most users share a common, shocked reaction after experiencing the program firsthand.
“In the second part of the tour, participants debrief and make connections between their own behavior and feelings and that of people with dementia. They are virtually the same,” Jackson said. “Most people then tell us they will be more patient, careful and deliberate in their communication techniques and approaches.
“The VDT helps raise awareness in the community that people still have wants, needs, wishes and dreams no matter their age or health status,” she said.
To schedule a tour, contribute, or learn more about Second Wind Dreams and the Virtual Dementia Tour, go to www.secondwind.org.
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