Be EPIC
Interested in Joining our Research Team?
Email us to hear about ongoing research projects and to inquire about joining our lab.
Follow Us:
on X
on Instagram
on LinkedIn
Be EPIC: Person-Centered Communication Training
TM is an innovative, evidence-informed and theoretically-grounded person-centered communication intervention for frontline care providers who work with persons living with dementia. It focuses on:
- Assessing the [E]nvironment
- Using [P]erson-centered communication
- Focusing on client relationships ([I] matter too)
- Incorporating the [C]lient’s abilities, life history and preferences during routine care.
The concent of Be EPICTM focuses on identifying person-centered communication and language strategies that support such communication, and using person-centered communication to support activities of daily living, to engage in meaningful activities, and to prevent and address responsive behaviors. Informed by social cognitive theory, Be EPICTM delivery includes: self-monitoring, supervised practice with simulated persons with dementia, and feedback/support from peers, simulated persons with dementia, and trainers.
Why Be EPIC-VRTM ?
To support scaling and sustainability, we have developed Be EPIC-VRTM, a virtual reality (VR) version of Be EPICTM. It was created with over two years of development, testing, and revision to ensure an optimal training experience.
Be EPIC-VRTM incorporates cutting-edge technology, including conversational artificial intelligence and natural language processing. Learners engage in real-time conversations with virtual avatars, promoting immersive and realistic communication experiences.
To learn more about the Be EPIC-VRTM program, watch this video:
Publications
The CARE Lab has conducted extensive research to (1) gather evidence that supports the development of Be EPICTM and (2) assess the effectiveness and feasibility of Be EPICTM as a training tool for frontline care providers.
To view our publications related to Be EPICTM, please click here.
Voices of Be EPICTM and Be EPIC-VRTM Participants

