Loss of memory severe enough to impact a person’s ability to carry out activities are conditions for dementia and an event in Washington this week will give people the chance to experience a simulation of dementia. Halcyon House is hosting Dementia Live for the public. Susan Wellington with Halcyon House explains that Dementia Live is a simulation and awareness training so the community can better understand what it is like to live with dementia, “We encourage family caregivers and anyone who may just know someone with dementia to go through this experience. You’ll actually have specialized gear that you’ll wear and you’ll be in a safe experiential setting, but it gives a real life simulation of what it’s like to live with dementia.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia and the number of Americans with it is expected to nearly triple in the next 40 years. The public is encouraged to call 653-7264 to sign up for the training Thursday. It will be held 1-2 p.m. at Morrison Center at Halcyon House. The goal is for the community, especially those with a loved one with dementia, to better understand what it’s like to live with dementia.