Building Empathy Through Virtual Reality: Enhancing Understanding of Dementia Care in Hospital Settings
Authors: Board, M., Dew, R.E.B.E.C.C.A., Aldridge, H., Lucas, E. and Muldoon, R.
Conference: EuGMS SIG on Education and Training
Dates: 28 November 2024
Abstract:Some details about the lecture: Negative labelling and stigma continue to influence the care of people with dementia. Labels such as 'dementia patient', 'difficult' or 'challenging'. These negative labels can lead to social isolation, decreased quality of care, and lower self-esteem for people living with dementia. They can also affect caregivers, healthcare providers, and the general public’s perceptions, often resulting in less patience, empathy, or understanding in interactions. Education has an important role to raise awareness and understanding of dementia, and there is a plethora of education available, however there can remain a gap in care received by those with dementia when they are in hospital. We spoke with people with dementia and their carers about their experiences and then from these conversations developed a short immersive VR film to share with HCP's as part of their dementia awareness education. Incorporating VR into dementia education offers a powerful way to foster empathy, improve understanding, and enhance caregiving practices. This innovative tool holds great potential for improving the lives of people with dementia and those who care for them.
Source: Manual