IMMERSIVE DEMENTIA EXPERIENCE: TRANSFORMING DEMENTIA CARE
2024

Virtual Dementia Tour Improves Understanding of Dementia Care

Sample size: 155 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): O’Malley Kelly, Correa, Boyle Julie, Stavrakopolous Dawn, Resendes Kelly, Quinlan Olga, Smith Amanda

Primary Institution: VA Boston Healthcare System

Hypothesis

Does the Virtual Dementia Tour improve clinicians' understanding and care practices for individuals with dementia?

Conclusion

The Virtual Dementia Tour significantly improved clinicians' perceptions of dementia care needs and their intention to change clinical practices.

Supporting Evidence

  • 83.8% of participants believed individuals with dementia received the care they need before training, which dropped to 16.3% after training.
  • 92% of participants said the experience would change their clinical care practices.
  • Participants reported a high level of understanding of dementia care needs after the training.

Takeaway

The Virtual Dementia Tour helps healthcare workers understand what it's like to have dementia, which makes them better at caring for people with the condition.

Methodology

Clinicians participated in the Virtual Dementia Tour and provided feedback on their experiences and perceived changes in care practices.

Participant Demographics

Clinicians at a Veterans Health Administration facility, including nurses, nursing assistants, and therapists.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.0929

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