Simulated Experiential Learning Activity to Empower Paid and Unpaid Caregivers in Dementia Care

The number of people with dementia is rising worldwide. People with dementia are challenged by the symptoms of their illness, as well by discriminatory attitudes and actions. However, this stigmatization is not only experienced by people with dementia; it is also experienced by the paid and unpaid caregivers who provide care for people with dementia. Education is a key strategy to reduce stigma and improve the quality of life of individuals with dementia. It also has the potential to provide caregivers with meaningful forms of support. A systematic review of the literature demonstrated that the most effective educational intervention to change attitudes and reduce stigma are resources that incorporate an in person contact approach. Dementia Live™ is a simulation tool that places learners “in the shoes” of people with dementia and is used to raise awareness of what it might be like to live with dementia. The targeted population includes students, health care and social care workers, staff from hospitals, longterm care residences, retirement homes, and home care services, as well as friends, volunteers and family caregivers. This educational intervention can serve as a model to develop additional simulation tools to reduce all types of stigma to support a safe learning and work environment.

Keywords: Dementia; Stigma; Experiential learn; simulation

Abbreviations:

ELA: Experiential Learning Activity

PWD: People with Dementia

Paid caregivers: Health and Social Care Workers

Unpaid caregivers: Family, Friends and Volunteers