The ‘dementia experience’ involved wearing glasses to impair vision, insoles that make walking uncomfortable and a device to inhibit hearing. By altering the participants’ senses, the Virtual Dementia Tour is the only scientifically and medically proven method of giving a person with a healthy brain the experience of living with dementia.
Manon James-Mallinger, Deputy Manager, Rivermede Court said, “We are passionate about providing the very best dementia care and are always open to new learnings as well as sharing best practice. The Virtual Dementia Bus gave people the opportunity to walk in the world of someone living with dementia and gain a greater understanding about how to improve the care for a loved one who is on a dementia journey. It was great to welcome the Mayor of Runnymede, Councillor Robert King and carers from the Purple Angel community to Rivermede Court for this thought-provoking experience, designed to change the way people think and care for those living with dementia, improving empathy and practical care.”
Councillor Elaine Gill, Mayor of Runnymede added: “Being on the Virtual Dementia Bus was truly enlightening. To be placed in the situation that many people find themselves with dementia was very sobering. We all associate dementia with memory loss but the other aspects that I experienced on the bus tour were quite startling. I will take from this experience that we all need to show more empathy and understanding going forward.”
Rivermede Court, based at The Avenue, Egham, offers exceptional residential, dementia and respite care. It is part of the Cinnamon Care Collection which, for the past eight years, has been recognised as a Top 20 Care Home Group by Carehome.co.uk.
For further information about Rivermede Court, please visit www.cinnamoncc.com/rivermede