Publication Date

2025

Abstract

Abstract Background: The prevalence of dementia is rising globally. Individuals with dementia rely on informal caregivers for long-term support. Research supports that empathy enhances caregiver well-being. Significance: Caregiver burden can lead to burnout, negatively affecting care quality. Enhanced cognitive empathy reduces burnout and improves caregiver relationships. Investigating interventions that enhance caregivers’ empathy is essential. Purpose: This study evaluates the Virtual Dementia Tour® (VDT), an immersive simulation program, in increasing empathy and understanding among dementia caregivers. Methods: A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was used. Participants were recruited via online advertisements and word of mouth. Participants completed a demographic survey and the Empathy and Understanding in Dementia Index (EUDI), which was used to measure empathy and understanding. Participants completed the VDT and a facilitated debriefing and then repeated the EUDI. Paired t-tests were used to compare pre and post results for the EUDI and the three domains of the tool. Results: There was a significant increase in post-intervention EUDI totals (mean = 65.5, SD = 8.52) compared to pre-intervention (mean = 54.6, SD = 11.09), t(24) = -6.575, p < 0.001. Significant improvements were also found across all three domains of the EUDI. Discussion: The VDT increased caregiver empathy demonstrated by significant increases in the EUDI scores. Enhanced empathy may reduce caregiver burden and improve care quality. Study limitations include: a small sample size, mostly female, highly educated, and all non-Hispanic participants. Some participants in the study were non-family caregivers. Conclusions: This study supports immersive simulations for improving caregiving experiences. Specifically, the ability to understand and share the experience of dementia and the ability to provide person-centered care. Further research is needed to explore the applicability in caregivers of other conditions.

Disciplines

Nursing

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Nursing Commons

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