Stepping Into Their Shoes: How the Virtual Dementia Tour is Changing Perspectives in Braintree
Home Instead Braintree was proud to host the Virtual Dementia Tour Bus in collaboration with Training 2 Care in July at the Gridserve Electric Forecourt in Braintree.
A Powerful Learning Experience for All
At Home Instead Braintree, we believe in compassionate care that starts with understanding. This unique event gave staff, local organisations, and members of the public a rare opportunity to experience what life might feel like for someone living with dementia.
More than just a training tool, the Virtual Dementia Tour Bus is an immersive educational experience. It helps participants temporarily simulate some of the physical and sensory challenges faced by people with dementia — such as disorientation, sensory overload, or frustration. The goal? To build empathy, awareness, and better person-centred care.
Local partners such as Braintree Museum, Halstead Rotary Club, and health professionals from the wider community joined us for this impactful session. Several people with family members living with dementia also came along, eager to better understand their loved ones’ daily experiences.
“It’s rather overwhelming… but enlightening,” said Paul from Halstead Rotary Club, who volunteers regularly with dementia support groups. “I now understand what people might be going through. I’ll take this back to my club so we can offer more compassionate support.”
The tour was equally powerful for our Care Professionals, many of whom support clients living with dementia every day.
One team member, Jenny, was initially sceptical:
“How can anyone really know what someone with dementia experiences?” she asked.
But after participating, she shared:
“Now I get why some of my clients behave the way they do. I had several ‘aha’ moments. It was emotional, but I feel more equipped to make their world calmer and less overwhelming.”
This feedback reflects our values at Home Instead Braintree: training that leads to real empathy, not just checklists.
Why Events Like This Matter
Director Mike explained why bringing the Dementia Tour Bus to Braintree was so important:
“It’s about raising awareness and sparking conversations. We want people to walk away with practical guidance and more compassion — whether they’re a family caregiver or a volunteer. Dementia care is about inclusivity, dignity, and doing better every day.”
Indeed, many participants left with a deep emotional reaction — describing the experience as “eye-opening,” “emotional,” “thought-provoking,” and “life-changing.”
This event is part of our wider commitment to dementia education in Braintree, Halstead, and the surrounding areas. As active members of the Braintree Dementia Action Alliance, we host information events during Dementia Awareness Week, attend monthly dementia drop-ins, and share resources like our ‘What’s On Where’ community guide to support carers and families.
If you’d like to know more about our dementia care services, educational events, or would like a copy of our “What’s on Where” Guide — get in touch with us today.
We’re here to help families navigate dementia with compassion, clarity, and care that truly understands.