A groundbreaking approach to caring for those with dementia has been piloted at a care home in Cobham.

Tiltwood in Cobham participated in the Care UK pilot alongside eight other homes in Surrey, and the mayor and mayoress of Elmbridge saw it in action first hand.

Councillor John Sheldon and Councillor Mary Sheldon visited Tiltwood on Monday, November 7, to take part in a training programme, which gives an idea of the dramatic effects dementia can have on the senses.

Special glasses blurred their vision, headphones delivered white noise and gloves were used to restrict movement of hands and fingers.

Trainees were also fed food they could not see, drank tea from plastic training beakers, and were asked questions in quick succession without enough time to think of replies.

Results from the pilot showed a 42 per cent increase in wellbeing among residents, based on increased mobility, social interaction, alertness and improved sleeping patterns.

Coun Sheldon said: “However much we try to imagine the state of mind experienced by people with dementia, our full understanding seems unlikely, unless we ourselves experience this cruel affliction.

“I commend those who have devised this experiential training, which promotes better understanding, and thus more effective care of the many whose lives and wellbeing depend on that care.”

As a result of the Surrey pilot, Care UK is recruiting more trainers to roll-out the approach to more of its homes across the UK.