This exercise is based on what has been termed the empathic model. This model allows you to experience some of the normal sensory and mobility changes that occur in old age. You will undertake some simple steps that will temporarily affect your senses and mobility. For safety reasons, you may want an "unimpaired" person to supervise you while completing some of the tasks. First, impair some of your sensory and mobility capabilities. I strongly urge you to explore the following websites for suggestions: Simulating age 85, with lessons on offering care "Xtreme Aging - Senior Sensitivity" programLinks to an external site. Here are a few ideas for becoming "impaired:" Insert earplugs to impair your hearing. Place 1-3 popcorn kernels or dried peas/beans in each of your socks or shoes to simulate loss of fatty tissue in your feet and to affect your mobility and balance. Immobilize your joints by wrapping tape around at least five of your knuckles, and decrease your tactile sensitivity by taping your fingertips or wearing gloves. Make (and wear) vision-impairment glasses/goggles; safety goggles work great. For instance, you can smear petroleum jelly on the lenses. Once you have become "impaired," try some of the following activities