Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court staff experience first-hand what it feels like to live with dementia

Staff at Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court, in Porthcawl, have reinforced their commitment to care for and support residents living with dementia. The Virtual Dementia Tour recently arrived at the care home for a one-off training session, in which staff members had the opportunity to get on the Dementia Bus and experience what it feels like to live with this condition.

While on the bus, nurses and carers wore headsets, glasses and gloves to alter their perception and be transported into the sensory experience of people living with dementia, who are often trying to function in an environment that is difficult for them to connect to. Afterwards, the staff attended a session where they shared their thoughts and brainstormed about how they can improve their support to the residents at Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court.

Mandy Kilpatrick-Evans, one of the Home’s Activities Coordinators, went on the Dementia Bus. She said:

It was a humbling experience to find out what these people go through every day. I came off the bus and cried.

Asked about whether she recommends this experience, Mandy said:

I think everyone should go on the Dementia Bus to develop more empathy and compassion for people living with dementia. It is an eye-opener!

The training opportunity, provided by Training2care, was made possible following a donation from the Jubilee Masters Centenary Trust. Among other charitable activities, this organisation provides financial support for staff training for older people’s care. Russell Race, Chairman of the Trustees, said:

The Trust had in mind to support RMBI Care Co. from its beginning. For us, the most important thing is that the staff receive the very best training, and we know the training of the Home’s staff in dementia care is specially relevant.

Home Manager Alison Aberdeen thanked the Jubilee Masters Centenary Trust for this donation and said:

To receive the recognition and the funding for this training demonstrates the commitment our organisation has to improving the lives of our residents living with this condition.

The Virtual Dementia Tour will be arriving at RMBI Care Co. Homes across England and Wales to provide one-off dementia training sessions and strengthen the staff’s skills to care for and support their residents living with dementia.

Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court’s staff members Kay Grist and Lisa Davies with the Dementia Bus, where they received dementia training and experienced what it feels like to live with dementia.