Two Illinois nonprofits are partnering with a virtual reality company to develop software for professionals caring for older adults with dementia.
On Friday, Chicago-based CJE SeniorLife and ElderWerks Educational Services announced a partnership with Toronto-based VR Vision to launch Dementia Reality.
Dementia Reality utilizes technology for training, with potential benefits for the healthcare industry, seniors with dementia, and their loved ones.
VR-Based Innovation
CJE says the goal is to have more empathetic caregivers and happier clients who are more engaged.
According to a press release, VR Vision’s technology immerses caregivers to prepare them for helping clients with dementia.
Trainees experience first-person simulations that give them the perspectives of a caregiver and someone with dementia.
CJE Director of Engagement and Innovative Programming Catherine Samatas says Dementia Reality’s type of programming is an impactful addition to currently-available training.
Samatas says virtual reality is a powerful medium for training.
“Dementia Reality brings multiple senses to training, which, as we have learned, is a far more effective way to train and engage employees, so they are confident and successful in their jobs,” says CJE President Dan Fagin. “CJE has always been committed to serving older adults and their families, and we expect to see exceptionally positive outcomes for both the trainees and the clients they care for with this new educational tool. We are thrilled to partner with VR Vision to help fulfill our mission of enhancing the quality of life of older adults through this outstanding program.”
Dementia Reality focuses on the caregiver’s feelings and the patient’s plight to foster a relationship based in trust and empathy.
Samatas says the ability to discuss a caregiver’s impact on a person with dementia in real time sets Dementia Reality apart as a powerful training tool.
Module-Based Training
Dementia Reality training modules include tasks like waking a resident and showering.
Modules also cover managing delusions and redirect behaviors like hoarding or eloping.
CJE says the modules train participants in proper care techniques and show the impact of their daily roles on people with dementia.
According to the company, many participants have had emotional experiences with the Dementia Reality program while considering how their practices affect people in their care.
“Creating immersive training experiences is our passion at VR Vision, and in working with CJE SeniorLife and Elderwerks, we developed soft skills training for both healthcare workers and seniors living with dementia,” says VR Vision CEO Roni Cerga. “This has driven a positive impact in both training readiness and bottom line ROI for the organizations and Dementia Reality program.”
Utilizing modern 360 video technology in a virtual environment, Dementia Reality creates realistic interactive content.
VR Vision says it considered trainer-conducted group sessions and developed a web-based application that allows them to control sessions and provide assistance with ease.
“Dementia Reality trainees will gain a real understanding of the world of a person living with dementia. The immersion into their world shows how someone would feel and react when cared for appropriately and inappropriately,” says Elderwerks President Jennifer Prell. “This education helps caregivers improve their knowledge and quality of care, which creates a better living environment for a person living with dementia.”
Training chapters begin with a simulations of real-life situations, focusing on client and the caregiver concerns.
The overall curriculum also includes group discussions between trainers and trainees.
Trainees who complete the entire course are eligible to earn continuing education units.
Visit the official website to learn more about VR Vision’s innovative program.