Published March 19, 2025
CAPTION: Dr. Amanda Stead, a nationally recognized dementia expert, debriefs the simulation
experience with participants.
MONROE, LA – On March 6 and 7, 2025, the University of Louisiana Monroe College of Health Sciences
faculty, in collaboration with St. Francis Medical Center and the Ouachita Council
on Aging, conducted two days of training for community members and healthcare providers
on best practices in dementia care.
These training opportunities were provided through the Dementia Compassion Project
established with funding from The Living Well Foundation.
The Virtual Dementia Tour, an evidence-based approach developed by Second Wind Dreams,
provided an opportunity for participants to experience a simulation of life with dementia
by entering a modified environment that causes the participants to physically experience
what it may be like to have dementia.
The simulation was followed by a debriefing session and training provided by Dr. Amanda
Stead, a nationally recognized dementia expert who has provided effective, practical
support for individuals with dementia across the United States. The goal of this training
was to promote empathy and skill of providers and support persons who engage with
the daily experience of those living with dementia.
"The VDT and the expertise of Dr. Stead have completely changed the way I see dementia,”
said Dr. Jennifer Whited, Director of the ULM School of Allied Health and one of the
organizers of the Dementia Compassion Project. “Before, I thought I understood what
empathy and quality care for dementia meant, but this training introduced a higher
level of awareness. This service to our community is valuable because it provides
all who care for a person with dementia, whether a community volunteer, nurse, physician,
therapist, or social worker, insight into how a person with dementia might perceive
the world,” she added.
"Participating in the dementia simulation was a transformative experience that deeply
altered my perception of those living with dementia, said Aimee Kane, Regional Vice President of Mission Integration and Formation at St. Francis
Medical Center. “It allowed me to step into their world, where simple tasks become monumental challenges.
This experience has taught me the importance of compassion, patience, and understanding.
It’s a powerful reminder to always put ourselves in others' shoes, particularly those
who may be navigating a reality we can’t always see," added Kane.
Loretta Hudson, Director of the Ouachita Council on Aging also stated, “This simulation gives one the experience of what it's like to view dementia through
your personal lens. The project was very impactful and significant, and promoted
positive change.”
The Dementia Compassion Project is part of a broader initiative to improve the continuum
of care for those with dementia and to promote ongoing training for caregivers and
healthcare providers in the Northeast Louisiana community. The project was founded
with grant funding from The Living Well Foundation.
Prior to the creation of The Dementia Compassion Project, the ULM Kitty DeGree School
of Nursing (KDSON) provided Virtual Dementia Tour training to ULM students and faculty,
using funds awarded by the ULM Opportunity Fund. Whited says going through the training
provided by KDSON inspired her and other faculty from the ULM School of Allied Health
to apply for the grant in order to bring the training to the community.
“I believe everyone involved in the continuum of care for dementia can benefit from
this training,” said Whited. “I'm grateful to be part of the work ULM and The Living
Well Foundation are doing to educate and support the Northeast Louisiana community."
