On 25th March 2025, ARC NWC post-doctoral DEM- COMM fellows Dr Megan Polden and Dr Megan Rose Readman of the University of Liverpool appeared on Radio Merseyside to discuss their work with presenter Kevin Duala. They are in the process of developing an innovative virtual reality (VR) platform designed to support people with dementia while shopping, addressing the significant challenges that can arise from a fear of leaving home.

Working alongside Drs Sarah Kate Smith and Sarah Fox of The University of Manchester, Drs Olivia Luijnenburg and Annabel Farnood of Kings College London, and Lettie Wareing of Lancaster University and co-developed with people living with dementia, carers, and supermarket staff, the VR platform is designed to reflect real-world experiences. It will be piloted in three schools and multiple supermarket sites across the UK, providing valuable insights into its impact and effectiveness.

Supermarket shopping is a key activity that many people living with dementia find enjoyable and want to continue. However, many people living with dementia acknowledge that supermarkets are not appropriately adapted to meet their needs. Recognising this, the research team are designing a VR learning platform aimed at equipping supermarket staff with the skills and awareness needed to create a more dementia-friendly shopping environment.

Local communities play a crucial role in helping people with dementia feel safe and connected, but this relies on raising awareness of the difficulties they face and how small changes can empower them to remain independent.

“Our platform will allow people to step into the shoes of individuals living with dementia in supermarket settings,” explained Dr Megan Polden. “Through an interactive, solution-based learning game, supermarket staff, will explore different ways to support customers with dementia, ensuring they have a positive and inclusive shopping experience.”

Dr Megan Rose Readman highlighted the broader vision for the project: “We see this as just the beginning. Our goal is to expand the use of this tool across multiple settings and workforces, fostering a more dementia-friendly society.”

To learn more about this pioneering project, listen to the BBC Radio Merseyside interview here and starts at 2:24. Link: Kevin Duala – 25/03/2025 – BBC Sounds