VR-based simulation training for de-escalation of responsive behaviours in persons with dementia: efficacy and feasibility

Abstract

Caregivers of persons with dementia (PWD) frequently face physical assault and emotional abuse when providing care. Providing experiential opportunities for caregivers to develop skills that maximize safe, compassionate care is a priority. Human simulation has demonstrated greater effectiveness than didactic activities in developing clinical skills. However, this requires consideration of physical safety for both learners and simulated participants (SPs), limiting the full expression of behaviours. To address this limitation, we conducted a proof-of-concept study engaging SPs on a synchronous, facilitated VR platform responding realistically, but safely, to learners’ communication approaches. Learners negotiated online with potential threats of violence from the SPs. This study used a pre/post mixed-method research design. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to explore the impact of this training on participants’ knowledge, confidence and comfort when providing care to PWD. Overall, participant ratings of knowledge, confidence and comfort increased post-training, as compared to pre-training ( Our findings provide insights into the implications of VR-based training for managing responsive behaviours of PWD. VR training has the ability to increase caregiver knowledge, confidence and comfort working with PWD who are exhibiting responsive behaviours, as shown by participants.