DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – A first-of-its-kind dementia-friendly training session took place this week at Flowers Hospital, making it only the third hospital in the state to receive this designation.
The training, led by Debra Hodgett, Education Specialist for the Southern Alabama Regional Council on Aging (SARCOA), is a joint effort between the Dementia Friendly Alabama grant and the PANDA Project grant. Its goal: to help medical professionals recognize, communicate with and better care for patients living with dementia.
“This training helps medical staff and hospital personnel understand what it’s like to live with dementia,” Hodgett said. “The biggest challenge for these individuals is navigating the medical system.”
We want to bring empathy to the forefront and improve the overall patient experience.”
Flowers Hospital’s recognition as a dementia-friendly facility is a major milestone. Hodgett said the partnership is vital because dementia care goes beyond doctors and nurses because it involves every person a patient may encounter, from security to transport staff.
One of the most powerful tools introduced during the training is SARCOA’s new virtual reality experience. Participants don headsets and are immersed in a simulation of life through the eyes of someone with dementia.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America puts participants in the shoes of Harry, a retired veterinarian who has Alzheimer’s. Staff were able to step into Harry’s world and understand why people with dementia do the things that they do.
“It gives you insight into the sights, sounds and confusion they might experience,” Hodgett explained. “It adds a whole new dimension to our training.”
SARCOA also offers support to caregivers, whether they’re family members or professionals. Hodgett encouraged anyone caring for a loved one with dementia to reach out for help and resources.
“We don’t want to be the best-kept secret,” she said. “Call us, email us, or stop by—we have programs in place to assist caregivers and those in the early stages of dementia.”
In addition to the virtual reality experience, the training included a presentation, video analysis and take-home materials from SARCOA and the National Institute on Aging. Flowers Hospital staff were praised for their engagement and willingness to learn, sharing personal stories and asking thoughtful questions.
“We want to thank Flowers Hospital for their commitment to this cause,” Hodgett said. “Their staff made time for this training, and that speaks volumes about how much they care.”
For more information or resources on dementia care and support, visit www.sarcoa.org or call (334) 793-6843.
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