Virtual training helps Viewpoint staff learn about dementia
Viewpoint staff experience life with dementia through virtual training.
The Virtual Dementia Tour Bus returned to Viewpoint this October to help staff members learn about living with dementia.
Operated by training2care UK, the bus gives people with healthy brains a practical understanding of what dementia might be like.
Over 60 Viewpoint staff took part in the two-day training, with the bus allowing them to experience what living with dementia could feel like through headphones, goggles, gloves and footwear. Places at the training were also offered to Viewpoint Board members and architects Smith Scott Mullan Associates.
The training was well received by Viewpoint staff, with participants commenting:
“An excellent way to show staff in care homes about dementia – highly recommended.”
“Great training although I do not want to face it again – scary.”
This was the second time that Viewpoint had welcomed the bus, having become the first employer in Scotland to receive a visit for staff training two years ago. Viewpoint also offered members of the public at Cameron Toll shopping centre the opportunity to learn more about dementia when the bus first visited in 2016.
Viewpoint’s Dementia Strategy 2018 commits to continuing to raise awareness and understanding of dementia, and underpins the organisation’s belief that understanding dementia from the person’s point of view can change practice, reduce issues, and improve lives.
Viewpoint looks forward to welcoming the bus again in 2019 and offering the experience to even more people.