Dementia Australia has launched a virtual reality (VR) training workshop for de-escalating a behavioural emergency in a care setting.
Called D-Esc, the workshop provides an immersive simulation designed for frontline and healthcare professionals to adopt an interactive approach to de-escalation training.
Dementia Australia says participants will build empathy and understanding towards people with dementia. One of the aims is to reduce the use of restrictive practices and the number and severity of dangerous incidents in care.
Dr Kaele Stokes from Dementia Australia said the new workshop provides training that is integral to the safety and professional development of the workforce and to improving the care of dementia sufferers.
“Behavioural emergencies and occupational violence in aged care are time-critical emergencies,” said Stokes. “We know that dementia can change people’s behaviour. Sometimes, the way they are experiencing a situation may mean a person is unable to communicate how they feel or what they are experiencing in the familiar ways.”
“D-Esc leverages technology to build participants’ confidence and capability to assess and respond effectively to changed behaviours safely.”
Launch events for D-Esc to the aged care sector are scheduled across Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide.
The workshops are designed for frontline health and aged care workers working in residential, home and community care, primary and acute care and disability care. Delivery is in-person, and the workshop runs for three hours, with up to 15 participants. D-Esc is fully funded until June 30, 2025, and available to 6,500 eligible participants.
D-Esc is a Dementia Australia program created with support from The Rosemary Norman Foundation, Fitzpatrick Sykes Family Foundation, Navarra Care Foundation and Australian Communities Foundation through HDR Australia Fund.
