Revolutionising Dementia Care: Dr Tanya Petrovich Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology in Webinar Series
In a dynamic exploration of the intersection between technology and dementia care, Dr Tanya Petrovich, Business Innovation Manager at Dementia Australia, recently led a captivating webinar titled “Technology Initiatives for Dementia Care.” Held as part of the Swinburne University of Technology’s Wellbeing Clinic for Older Adults Webinar Series on Ageing, this session delved deep into the realm of digital innovation, aimed at addressing the complexities of dementia care. With a focus on leveraging technology to foster awareness, understanding, and practice enhancement, Dr Petrovich guided attendees through a transformative cutting-edge initiative.
At the heart of the discussion was ‘Ted’, an AI avatar intricately designed to emulate the lived experience of individuals with dementia. Ted’s role is to provide a window into the challenges faced by those living with dementia and their caregivers. Dr Petrovich underscored the transformative potential of immersive learning experiences, such as this Virtual Dementia Experience, in engaging both professional and family carers. By simulating real-world scenarios through game technology, participants are afforded invaluable insights into the emotional and cognitive nuances of dementia caregiving.
One of the key takeaways from the session was the importance of respectful and empathetic communication in dementia care. Through Ted’s interactions with caregivers, attendees witnessed first-hand the profound impact of caregiver behaviours on individuals living with dementia. Dr Petrovich emphasised the need for caregivers to prioritise the dignity and autonomy of those they care for, as exemplified by Ted’s response to unmet expectations.
The webinar served as a platform for dialogue, reflection, and actionable insights. Attendees were challenged to rethink traditional caregiving approaches and consider the role of technology in driving positive practice change. Dr Petrovich’s engaging presentation prompted thought-provoking discussions on the evolving landscape of dementia care and the potential for digital innovation to revolutionise caregiving practices.
Dr Tanya Petrovich Business Innovation Manager at Dementia Australia.
As the session ended, participants left with a newfound appreciation for the transformative power of technology in dementia care. Dr Petrovich’s call to action resonated with attendees, inspiring them to leverage technology as a tool for compassion, empathy, and person-centred care. The webinar served as a testament to the collaborative efforts of academia, industry, and healthcare professionals in advancing the field of dementia care through innovation and technology.