“Mimi” and “Joe” are two computer-animated seniors with dementia, hypothetical characters in a new, publicly available e-learning module – “Me and U-First” - that targets frontline caregivers. “Mimi” lives in a long term care home while “Joe” resides in his own community.

The eight-phase module, which will be released in late October or early November, has its foundation in P.I.E.C.E.S. training, explains Maureen O’Connell, Psycho-Geriatric Resource Coordinator for the Simcoe County Dementia Network.

“The scenarios [in the module] are similar to what a PSW would encounter,” she says. “Me and U-First” is an initiative of the Simcoe County network and “U-First,” an Ontario government sponsored dementia education program. (see www.u-first.ca)

“This is an extension of our previous efforts to educate [caregivers],” says O’Connell.

After a brief overview of dementia, a module participant is then taken through six phases, focusing first on the physical, intellectual, and emotional aspects of the disease. It then turns to a person’s capabilities and how environment and social factors can impact someone who has dementia. Finally, a wrap-up provides a link to resources.

“Mimi” and “Joe” provide concrete, real-life examples as the modules progress.

The modules were the creation of a discussion group held with newly graduated PSWs and other frontline caregivers in 2004.

“There were many graduates who didn’t feel prepared to deal with someone who has dementia after they left school,” says O’Connell. “They didn’t feel ready.”

Each module has a section for note-taking, so participants have a reminder in the event they leave one module only to return weeks later. It also allows them to review the cases upon their return to the program.

“It gives them something concrete – a reminder,” says O’Connell.

The modules also feature a certificate that participants receive upon completion.

Its format is low-band width, allowing caregivers who only have access to dial-up systems – especially those in rural areas - to use the modules.