Virtual tour to show what life with dementia is like

MIDDLETOWN — The Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter will offer "virtual dementia tours" in Orange County.
The tour is a hands-on simulation of what it's like to live with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia to help caregivers and others identify and cope with the needs of their loved ones. Appointments are required for the 25-minute sessions.
The tour will be offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 8, at Braemar at Wallkill, 21 Riverside Drive, Middletown.
People who have gone through the simulation found it an eye-opening experience.
“I am equally terrified and amazed at what is happening to people with dementia that we cannot see,” said a woman in her 50s. “This completely changed my view of what is happening. My father has some signs of dementia, and I wish I could have my mother experience something like this to help her.”
“I was reminded immediately of how the world must feel to my son, who has sensory processing disorder,” said a mother in her 40s. “I know it wasn't the point of the activity, but I feel like I can understand him so much better now, and maybe even be more aware than I was before of what might be hurting him.”
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit www.alz.org/hudsonvalley or call 800.272.3900. This program is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.
For more information or to RSVP, call the Alzheimer’s Association at 800-272-3900.