Enhancing dementia awareness and empathy through virtual reality: implications for community nurses

Abstract Background Dementia affects one in five people, with its prevalence rising due to an aging population. Around 70% of those with dementia live at home, supported by aging-in-place policies. Community nurses assist caregivers, but negative stereotypes and limited understanding remain. Virtual Reality (VR) immerses individuals in the experience of dementia, boosting empathy and awareness. This study explores VR's potential to increase dementia awareness and its implications for community nursing. Methods A mixed-method study was conducted. Participants, aged 18 and older with no professional background in dementia care and free from conditions like motion sickness, completed pre- and post-surveys on their knowledge and empathy regarding dementia. Participants then experienced a 360-degree VR simulation that simulated the challenges faced by individuals with dementia. After the VR experience, a second survey was administered, and responses were analyzed through thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews. Results Out of 300 participants, 292 were included in the analysis. The sample was 52.7% male, with 39.3% aged 25-34. Over half (57.1%) knew someone with dementia. Before the VR experience, 53% believed dementia was hereditary, while only 30.1% knew it could occur in early-onset cases. Although empathy levels did not change significantly, 48.9% had a positive VR experience, and 86.2% felt VR contributed to a dementia-friendly society. Interviews revealed that participants gained a deeper understanding of how dementia affects social interactions, with individuals often feeling excluded and frustrated. Conclusions This study concludes that VR is an effective tool for raising dementia awareness and empathy. While short-term empathy changes were observed, further research is needed on its long-term impact, especially for community nurses and caregivers. VR could help promote dementia-friendly behavior across sectors. Key messages • Virtual Reality enhances empathy and knowledge of dementia, contributing to a dementia-friendly society. • VR is a valuable tool for community nurses and other caregivers, improving the delivery of empathetic care to individuals with dementia.