Virtual Dementia Experience Brings Powerful Insights to Birmingham West
Bluebird Care Birmingham West recently hosted the Dementia Bus, an interactive training experience designed to provide firsthand insight into the daily challenges faced by people living with dementia. The mobile dementia simulator, provided by Training2Care, stopped at Zenith House, allowing local care professionals, community members, and families to participate in this immersive learning opportunity.
The experience aims to deepen understanding of dementia by replicating common symptoms. Participants wore mittens that impaired dexterity, glasses with altered lenses to distort vision, and headphones to simulate auditory challenges. Darkened rooms with colored lights further enhanced the sense of disorientation, while spiked insoles created a pins-and-needles sensation—often reported by individuals living with dementia.
Local care teams, including social workers, occupational therapists, Age UK representatives, and healthcare providers, engaged in the training alongside Bluebird Care Birmingham West’s dementia care specialists. Wiltshire Farm Foods, a valued partner in providing meals to customers, also contributed to the event by treating participants to delicious refreshments, adding warmth and hospitality to the experience.
Kam Goraya, franchise owner of Bluebird Care Solihull, shared:
"The immersive experience boosts understanding and empathy for people living with dementia. Hosting this event was an opportunity to bring together social care professionals and deepen our collective knowledge on how we can better support those affected."
Registered Care Manager Narbir Virk added:
"There is no substitute for a hands-on experience. Our care experts assist people living with dementia every day, and this event reinforced how we can tailor our support to improve their quality of life."
Attendee Philip, whose family member lives with dementia, reflected on the experience:
"That was an eye-opening experience! A brilliant initiative—thank you for the opportunity to participate and share stories. It was truly invaluable."
Through events like the Dementia Bus visit, Bluebird Care Birmingham West continues to empower families and care professionals with the knowledge and skills to support individuals living with dementia, ensuring they can remain safe and well at home for as long as possible.
