According to research conducted by the Institute for Dementia Research & Prevention, over 5 million individuals in the United States are currently living with the disorder. Worldwide, someone is diagnosed with dementia every 3 seconds. As the United State’s population continues to rise, the need for a well-rounded and comprehensive approach to dementia care is clear.
Virtu-Well is proud to announce that we are doing our part to combat dementia by partnering with The National Council of Dementia Practitioners. The NCCDP is the Global Leader in Dementia education, training, and certification programs.
We’ve recently been endorsed as a recommended program by the NCCDP and all of our team members are currently in the process of obtaining their Individual Certified Dementia Practitioner Certification so we can best serve populations in need of memory care more effectively.
Virtual Reality, when used as a form of recreational therapy, is a popular person-centred approach to combating dementia symptoms. In fact, many studies show that Virtual Reality has the potential to reduce negative emotions associated with dementia including increased agitation, reduced anxiety, and improved memory. In a recent study conducted by the University of Kent, VR therapy has been found to improve interactions with caregivers.
Instead of using a one-size fits all approach, we encourage all of our users to choose their own interactive experience. Participants can choose to revisit their country of origin, to cross something extraordinary off their bucket list, or to revisit a favorite hobby. Many of our residents opt to revisit the sites of their honeymoon, or take part in vigorous activities like horseback riding or bungee jumping which they are no longer physically able to participate in. We focus on caring for the emotional needs of the individual in order to combat the disease and provide enjoyment.
“Virtu-Well allows one to experience something new or reminisce about past ventures. This is an important program that Activity Directors and Therapeutic Recreation Specialists should add to their monthly therapeutic recreation programming,”
– Sandra Stimson, CEO of The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners
You can join us in working to increase the quality of care dementia patients experience by obtaining your own Individual Certified Dementia Practitioner Certification. This certification is open to all health care professionals, educators, front line staff, and clergy who work closely to provide support to individuals struggling with dementia.
Some of the many benefits to becoming CDP certified include improved patient interventions and outcomes, evidence-based models for quality care, and career advancement opportunities.
You can learn more about the benefits of the program and whether or not you and your team qualifies by clicking here.
Therapeutic Virtual Reality has the power to forever change dementia care. Here at Virtu-Well, we are proud to be on the forefront of the new frontier of care.