Library Changes Perceptions of Aging with Virtual Dementia Tour

Sometimes it is difficult to empathize with an aging parent or family member as they age or suffer the effects of dementia. Those changes are hard to imagine if you haven’t actually experienced them for yourself.

Now you can, when you experience the Virtual Dementia Tour presented by Second Wind Dreams at the Hampton Park Library on Thursday, September 14.

Participation in the Virtual Dementia Tour is free and patrons should register online for a 20-minute simulation session at goo.gl/ccFhLK.

“The Virtual Dementia Tour gives caregivers and others that aid elderly patients an opportunity to walk in someone else’s shoes – to feel what it’s like to lose your vision or depth perception, and how those factors combine with diminished motor skills to make even simple tasks more complicated,” explains Program Manager Laura Bradley.

Created in 2002 by geriatric psychologist P.K. Beville, founder of Second Wind Dreams, the Virtual Dementia Tour is an evidence-based and clinically proven simulation of the effects of aging and dementia. Over two million physicians, nurses, first responders and caregivers in 20 countries have experienced the Virtual Dementia Tour.

Second Wind Dreams is a charitable organization dedicated to changing the perception of aging through the fulfillment of dreams and the offering of educational programs including the Virtual Dementia Tour as its flagship sensitivity training.

“Staff from Second Wind Dreams will lead participants through hands-on simulations that use glasses, gloves, headphones, and slippers or special shoes,” adds Bradley.

The program simulates the loss of vision acuity, color differentiation, depth perception, motor skills, and hearing, as well as presenting new aches and pains with an overall sensation of discomfort.

Health care and residential facilities frequently use the Virtual Dementia Tour to train and create empathy in those who will be working with and caring for elderly patients. Family members who are caretakers for elderly relatives may also benefit from an increased awareness of the challenges their loved ones face as they grow older.

“Patrons can register online or by contacting the library to participate in this free simulation. It takes about 20 minutes to complete a simulation and elder care experts from Second Wind Dreams will be available to answer questions about aging, geriatric health, and dementia as participants finish the tour.

For more information, or to register, please visit www.forsythpl.org.