A weighted suit and sensory deprivation equipment are being used to build greater empathy and understanding for those living with dementia.
The Guernsey Alzheimer's Association and Dementia Friendly Guernsey are hosting immersive experiences for people to understand the frustrations and restrictions people living with dementia face, in addition to their Neurodegenerative disease.
The weights, gloves, glasses, earplugs and headphones simulate arthritis, tunnel vision, and tinnitus.
At the same time, a distorted radio and a loud TV are meant to irritate and disorient.
Session participants are then asked to perform everyday tasks.
Admiral Nurse Lottee Bonner says the goal is to enhance the level of care.
"We want HSC staff, carehome workers, husbands, wives and children to understand how their loved ones are feeling.
"One lady said that her husband never finished his dinner, and when she realised he probably couldn’t see half of the plate, she said very recently that they turned the plate around the other way halfway through the meal, and now he completes his dinner.
"People with dementia get frustrated, and then their behaviour escalates.
"Then they are given the wrong kind of titles or labels, being called aggressive or challenging, and in fact, it’s not - it is pure distress."
Groups can contact the Guernsey Alzheimer's Association to try the suits.
@islandfm Ever wondered what it feels like to live with dementia? 💭 Island FM’s James Bentley teamed up with Alzheimer’s Guernsey to try a simulation suit. ##guernsey##channelislands##radio##islandfm##dementia ♬ original sound - Island FM
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