A Pennsylvania couple, Jan and Bob Donnell, recently participated in a simulation to better understand the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia. The couple began taking care of Jan’s mother in 2020, initially believing she had a memory problem, but soon saw her condition deteriorate and struggled with communication.
Simulation Experience
The couple turned to Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, which offers a simulation using specialized headphones, glasses, and gloves to replicate the sensory and cognitive challenges faced by those with dementia. The simulation allowed them to hear, see, and feel what the dementia patient is going through.
"It was frustrating when I couldn’t do simple tasks, and just eye-opening for sure," Jan said. The simulation helped the couple gain insight into her experience and understand the importance of adapting their situation to give both themselves and the person they love some better days at home.
Through the Dementia360 program, family caregivers are paired with coordinators to identify what is working well, what isn’t, and strategies for providing the best care possible. The program aims to help caregivers adapt their situation and provide better care for their loved ones.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
