Senior Caregivers Week Virtual Dementia Tour

University of Kentucky HR Elder Care program is hosting two events for Senior Caregivers Week, Nov. 1-3. The Virtual Dementia Tour runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1 and Wednesday, Nov. 2, at the Gaines Center for the Humanities/Commonwealth House located at 226 E. Maxwell St. 

The tour is a simulation that allows participants to experience what living with dementia might be like. It is an evidence-based method for building a greater understanding of dementia using sensory tools and instruction.  

Two participants will go through the simulation at 15-minute intervals, and there will be 26 participants each day. 

The simulation will take approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Participants will need to arrive a few minutes early to receive instruction and acquaint themselves with the surroundings. If participants are late, they may be asked to reschedule for a future simulation date. 

On Thursday, Nov. 3, an Elder Care lunch and learn session, Sensory Systems and Dementia, will be presented by Dr. Elizabeth Rhodus with the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom. Rhodus will discuss the various sensory systems and how sensation and perception are altered with the onset of cognitive impairment. She will provide tips on how to improve communication styles with a loved one; tips to start using right now.  

Sign up for the Elder Care lunch and learn here.