Have you ever wondered what it was like to have a vision impairment, hearing impairment or not be able to smell or feel something? These are things that happen naturally as we age, yet few of us think about this until we are older. What if you could temporarily experience this to help understand what it is like to be an older person. We have a K-State program that can help us do just that. Gray for a Day is a simulation experience that utilizes an empathic approach to educate individuals on the age-related sensory and functional challenges that some older adults might face.
Recently, I had the opportunity to shadow Donna Krug, District Director and Family Consumer Science Agent, while she conducted the simulation with a high school class in Great Bend. The class was very engaged, asked questions, and were good sports while using the props to see what it “feels like” as we age. There are several objectives we hope to accomplish by presenting this program. The first is to understand how the senses and functional abilities can decline with age. We also hope to personally experience age-related sensory and functional decline with the simulations. By understanding the influence of sensory and functional decline on daily life, the hope is to encourage one to develop the skills necessary to effectively interact with someone who may be experiencing age-related sensory and functional declines. Finally, we hope to impart understanding that by taking steps to improve or maintain your health now that this will contribute to sensory and functional well-being in the future.
These activities work great with people of all ages. It can spark great conversations between old and young people alike. Please call or email if you are interested in Gray for A Day presentation for your class or organization.
Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or [email protected].