Virtual Dementia Tour Gives Families and Caregivers New Perspective

In recognition of Alzheimer's Awareness Month, The Watermark at Vistawilla – an assisted living and memory care community in Winter Springs – hosted a virtual dementia tour led by ComForCare for team members and family members of residents.

The virtual dementia tour allows someone without the illness to experience similar symptoms. Participants wear items that simulate the effects of Alzheimer’s and dementia, including headphones playing loud music, gloves to simulate arthritis, and special glasses to simulate cataracts. They are then asked to complete simple tasks like setting the table or folding clothes.

The sensory tools make it very hard to understand the instructions and complete them. This powerful experience offered participants a glimpse into the daily challenges faced by those living with dementia.

After completing the tour, Rita Anello, who’s loved one lives at The Watermark at Vistawilla had this to say:

"The tour gave me a whole new perspective on what my loved one may be experiencing each day. It was emotional, eye-opening, and incredibly impactful. While difficult, it helped me better understand the challenges of living with dementia and reinforced the importance of patience, compassion, and support.”

Like Rita, many participants were surprised by the emotional and physical difficulties they encountered during the tour.

“While challenging, the experience can provide valuable insight for loved ones and caregivers,” said Kimberly Dike, director of Community Experience at The Watermark at Vistawilla. “The goal is that they have increased understanding of the disease and how it affects people, as well as greater empathy for individuals living with cognitive impairment. We are grateful to everyone who participated and to ComForCare for providing this meaningful educational opportunity.”

For more information on ComForCare, call (407) 406-5902 or visit https://www.comforcare.com/greater-orlando.

About The Watermark at Vistawilla

Located in Winter Springs, Fla., The Watermark at Vistawilla is an 87-apartment assisted living and memory care community located at 1519 E State Rd 434. Differentiators of the new community include certified associates, continuous care and hands-on educational programming. Owned and managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, The Watermark at Vistawilla is committed to creating an extraordinary community where people thrive. For more information, visit vistawilla.watermarkcommunities.com.