Residents in Tandragee and the surrounding area were given the chance to experience some of the challenges faced by people living with dementia and autism when a specialist mobile bus visited the town.
The Virtual Dementia Tour and Autism Reality Experience bus arrived on Tuesday 13 October as part of a Health and Wellbeing event organised by the Southern Health Trust in partnership with Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council. The event formed part of Positive Ageing Month.
A simulated sensory challenge
During each session, participants wore vision-distorting glasses and thick gloves, while spiky insoles and loud, disorienting background noise were used to recreate aspects of sensory deprivation, confusion and physical impairment.
The experience is intended to help people better understand the difficulties dementia and autism can bring. Organisers said that greater understanding can help people adapt and improve the level of care provided.
Support highlighted at wellbeing showcase
The event also included a Health and Wellbeing showcase, attended by Deputy Lord Mayor Alderman Lavelle McIlrath. The showcase highlighted organisations available to support people in the community.
“This was a fantastic event, where the Southern Health Trust and ABC Council have come together to highlight the various organisations that are available to provide support to people in the community.”
Alderman McIlrath said the focus on dementia and autism was important because both affect many families. She added that the bus experience would help give people a better understanding, which is important when providing care.
Residents can find information about other events taking place in their communities during Positive Ageing Month through the ABC Council website.