NURSES and clinicians learned just how later life can feel as they took turns trying on an older-age simulation suit.

Restricted movement and poor eyesight can make getting around and completing every day tasks much more difficult and tiring for older people.

Care staff across the county felt it was important they understood the challenges, both physical and mental, faced by older people in their care.

So colleagues from Oxford Health and Oxford Brookes University took part in a simulation day at Witney Community Hospital – using a specially designed suit and goggles to simulate the effects of ageing on their bodies and vision.

Paula Har, clinical nurse specialist in mental health and dementia, said: "As part of the day the staff were able to try on the suits which simulate ageing and the physical difficulties associated with that.

"While in the suits, the staff were given tasks such as trying to pour drinks and eat breakfast cereal and also walking around the building and up and down stairs.

"Staff of all grades were involved in the session and even one of our consultants tried on the suits to experience what it is like to have restricted mobility and vision and having to negotiate the hospital.

"It can be a real eye-opener.

"The purpose of the session was to develop empathy and understanding of the needs of older people."