Staff training (yes really)
Although this seems like an odd assortment of equipment to use, this is a vital part of staff training at Elder Homes.
We all realise we cannot know how a resident feels who is living with dementia (particularly Alzheimer`s), Macular degeneration, Cateracts or only partial hearing. However we hope that with these props, we can partially replicate just a small portion of what some of our residents go through every day.
The blindfold and ear protectors are used by staff to make their sight and hearing as poor as possible, then they are guided and pushed around the home in a wheelchair. Time is given afterwards to reflect on this and everyone, so far has said it is a horrible experience. Discussion follows about how we could make this better for someone.
The sunglasses smeared with Vaseline are used to dim eyesight and gloves are used to dull sensations through fingers. The tape is used to tape fingers together to simulate Arthritis. Once `kitted out` (also with something in shoes to act like corns or bunions) staff are given various tasks to do in a darkened room, with very loud music playing and very little instructions. Again staff reflect how uncomfortable and scary this is, yet it is the reality of many people living with Alzheimer`s.
If you are interested, please see YouTube clip called `Experience 12 minutes in Alzheimer`s dementia` suggested to us by one of our new staff, Chelsea.
