The students of the Delfín program visiting the Medellín campus of the María Cano University Foundation participate in support and intervention activities for individuals with Alzheimer’s during their research stay. This work is part of a project led by Professor Angélica Alarcón from the Occupational Therapy program and Rosa Pérez from the Physical Therapy program. The project aims to determine whether the use of augmented reality can enhance the stimulation process and performance in instrumental activities of daily living for this population. These actions allow students to apply theory in practice and strengthen their research skills.

This work is important because caring for the health of individuals with Alzheimer’s is essential to ensuring a better quality of life and preserving their physical and emotional well-being. This neurodegenerative disease progressively affects memory, thinking, and behavior, making comprehensive care indispensable—care that includes medical support, psychological assistance, balanced nutrition, safe routines, and a stable and affectionate environment. Early detection and specialized follow-up help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, while also providing families with tools to face the daily challenges of caregiving.

Moreover, caring for people living with Alzheimer’s also means promoting their dignity, respect, and active participation in daily life to the extent of their abilities. Raising social awareness about this condition is key to reducing stigma, encouraging inclusion, and building effective support networks. Shared responsibility among the healthcare system, institutions, and families promotes human, compassionate, and person-centered care, acknowledging each individual’s needs and the value of their life story.

In this context, participating in the Delfín program represents a valuable opportunity for students and healthcare professionals to strengthen their competencies in the care of people with Alzheimer’s. Through formative experiences with strategic partners of the María Cano University Foundation, the learning of best practices, exposure to innovative approaches, and the development of a broader and more humanistic vision of care are all facilitated. These programs enable the sharing of knowledge, sensitivity, and strategies that can later be applied and adapted to local contexts, thereby enriching comprehensive care and the social impact of healthcare.

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