UK HR Eldercare hosting Virtual Dementia Tour for employees Oct. 27
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 16, 2026) — Dementia affects more than six million older Americans, and it’s expected to double by 2026, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Many caregivers help elder loved ones fight the impacts of dementia, and having first-hand knowledge of what it’s like to live with dementia is important.
University of Kentucky Human Resources Eldercare invites UK employees to its Virtual Dementia Tour Tuesday, Oct. 27. The product of Second Wind Dreams, the Virtual Dementia Tour uses an in-person, evidence-based simulation method that allows participants to experience the life of someone living with Alzheimer’s disease or other related dementias.
“By participating in the Virtual Dementia Tour, you can better understand the challenges faced by individuals with dementia, helping you develop greater empathy and insight,” said Hazel Teichen, UK HR eldercare specialist.
Using sensory tools and instructions that alter your senses to mimic the various manifestations of dementia, participants will be guided through common everyday tasks and exercises. Register for this unique workshop and gain understanding of the physical and cognitive challenges those with dementia face.
“My mom struggled with dementia for 12 years, but it wasn’t until I experienced the Virtual Dementia Tour that I truly understood what her world was like,” one family caregiver said.
The Virtual Dementia Tour is 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, at the UK College of Nursing, located at 751 Rose St. Those wishing to attend can reserve their time online.
Participants will go through the simulation at 15-minute intervals. Spots are reserved by appointment only and are first come, first served. Time slots are limited to eight people per hour.
The simulation will take approximately 30 minutes to complete. Participants will need to arrive a few minutes early to receive instructions and acquaint themselves with their surroundings. If participants are late, they may be asked to reschedule for a future date.
For more information, contact Hazel Teichen at 859-218-9171 or hazel.teichen@uky.edu.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and healthcare. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $1.02 billion research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.