Eva Peisachovich

York University, Canada

Abstract Title: Empathy in Action: AREduX Approach to Support Persons Living with Dementia and their Caregivers

Biography:

Research Interest: The increasing prevalence of dementia worldwide underscores the urgent need for innovative, empathy-centred approaches to caregiver and healthcare professional (HCP) education. To address this, we developed the Augmented Reality Education Experience (AREduX), an augmented reality (AR) simulation that immerses users in the sensory, cognitive, and emotional challenges of living with dementia. Using a mixed-methods approach, we developed, implemented, and evaluated AREduX through a four-phase design-based process that included prototype development, usability testing, experiential workshops, and pre- and post-test assessment of empathy and care competence. The first three phases included prototype development, usability testing, and an iteration based on data collected, while the fourth phase involved experiential workshops (Peisachovich et al., 2022). This paper presents the results of the fourth phase, which involved pre- and post-assessment of empathy and care competence. In Phase 4, 15 participants (13 HCPs, 2 caregivers) completed a structured workshop and engaged with AREduX using an AR headset and aging suit. Quantitative data were collected using the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ) and the Sense of Competence in Dementia Care Staff (SCIDS) scale. Although TEQ scores showed no statistically significant change, SCIDS results indicated enhanced perceived competence post-simulation. Qualitative findings, drawn from field observations and focus-group interviews, revealed strong emotional responses to the simulation: Participants described the experience as frustrating, physically challenging, and deeply eye-opening. These affective reactions suggest that AREduX evoked meaningful shifts in empathic understanding that may not be fully captured by traditional self-report measures. This study demonstrates the feasibility and experiential impact of using AR for dementia empathy training. While further research with larger sample sizes and improved measurement tools is needed, AREduX shows promise as an immersive educational intervention capable of strengthening empathy and care quality in dementia support contexts. Keywords: augmented reality; empathy; experiential education; simulation-based environment; experiential education