Simulator to allow people experience dementia symptoms

A groundbreaking virtual reality experience that allows participants to experience first-hand the disorientation and memory loss that those with dementia face daily will be available in Athlone this week.

The Dementia Bus will be onsite at Dunnes Stores Irishtown, Athlone, on Wednesday, September 4, from 10.30am to 5pm.

The virtual simulator is being brought to Athlone by Bluebird Care, in partnership with Dunnes Stores, to mark World Alzheimer’s Month.

It has been scientifically developed to give those with a healthy brain an experience of dementia, so they understand best practices and environments that can improve the lives of those who suffer from the condition.

With over 55,000 people living with dementia in Ireland, this immersive roadshow offers an eye-opening glimpse into their world.

It is an essential step towards building empathy and understanding within communities, which are key to improving the quality of care, says Bluebird Care Ireland Managing Director Suzanne Ryan.

She said, “Being able to literally walk in the person’s shoes, and understand their situation, is priceless. Dementia presents unique challenges, particularly with early-onset disease. Bluebird Care is heavily invested in growing staff numbers and in specialist training to meet demand.”

There are approximately 55,000 people diagnosed with dementia in Ireland, over half of whom are living in the community. Among long-term care residents, 72% are likely to have dementia.

An estimated 141,200 people will have a dementia diagnosis by 2050, with 11,000 new cases each year. In 2018, dementia was the fourth-highest cause of death in Ireland.