Experiential Learning Through a Dementia Simulation

Health care providers do not always possess the knowledge and skills necessary to optimally manage behavioral symptoms in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The purpose of the current project was to evaluate the use of a simulated virtual reality AD experience on nursing staff sensitivity, awareness, and perceptions of caring for patients with AD. A quasi-experimental design was used. The Long Tour Survey and Approaches to Dementia Questionnaire were administered pre and post simulation and the Perceptions of Caring surveys were administered 3 to 6 weeks post-intervention. Total scores, although not statistically significant, revealed a slight change in the total score and hope subscale, representing more optimism toward people with dementia. The virtual reality AD simulation was a beneficial experience but unable to demonstrate a real change for the majority of participants. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47(11), 39-47.].