Certified Trainer Virtual Dementia Tour, Dementia Outreach Specialist
The internationally known non-profit, Second Wind Dreams® (SWD®) was founded in 1997, growing out of the work of geriatric specialist P.K. Beville, M.S. who has served eldercare since 1983. The organization's name derived from a novel, Second Wind, by Beville who wrote about the wonderful and colorful people who live and work in a nursing home. Over the last 20 years, Second Wind Dreams has made monumental strides to change the perception of aging through the fulfillment of dreams and the offering of educational programs that help us understand the challenges facing those with dementia. SWD serves over 600 eldercare communities around the world by making dreams come true on an average of 6 per day. In addition to fulfilling thousands of dreams, the non-profit has built an award-winning program that includes training and support for Dream Weavers, educational programs for eldercare professionals, a monthly newsletter, a web site, and ongoing publicity efforts with local and national media.In addition to the Dreams program, Second Wind Dreams is the home of the internationally recognized Virtual Dementia Tour® (VDT®). The VDT Series, created by Beville, is a scientifically proven method of training designed to build sensitivity and awareness in individuals caring for those with Dementia. Present in 21 countries and experienced by over 3 million people worldwide, the VDT is changing how dementia care is provided. Second Wind Dreams is recognized as the first in the United States to focus on enhancing the quality of life for elders and changing society's perception of aging by making elder dreams come true and creating the patented educational program, the Virtual Dementia Tour.