What Is A Dementia Village?

Living with dementia can involve daily challenges not only for the person affected but also for their family and caregivers. As memories fade and familiar tasks become unfamiliar, dementia can disrupt the routines that once anchored a person's life. Supporting loved ones as they work through these changes often means seeking living arrangements that provide constant care and a safe, supportive environment. 

Traditional care options might seem clinical and impersonal, and they can sometimes struggle to meet each person's needs. This is where a dementia village can offer a different approach. These specially designed communities may create a sense of normalcy and freedom for residents with dementia. They usually aim to maintain a high quality of life for their residents and allow individuals to live with a degree of independence that traditional nursing homes may not be able to provide. If you or a loved one is living with dementia and struggling to cope with the diagnosis, consider reaching out to a therapist for support.

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What is a dementia village? Is it like a town?

What does the concept of a dementia village represent?

The concept may represent a paradigm shift in care for those with dementia, moving away from institutional settings to more personalized and homelike surroundings. The world's first recognized dementia village, Hogeweyk, was established in 2009 in the Netherlands and has since inspired the creation of others globally, such as Dementia Village Associates (DVA) projects. 

These villages are not just about providing care but also maintaining a way of life, reflecting the diverse needs and preferences of their residents. They may offer a sense of freedom with safety measures subtly incorporated into the village's design. With this thoughtful approach, residents can partake in everyday activities, which may contribute to a sense of community and well-being.

Improving quality of life and Alzheimer’s care for people facing the disease

Dementia villages can be seen as residential care communities developed specifically to support people with dementia, improving their quality of life and providing specialized care. They can be a unique approach to creating an environment that resembles life in one's own home. As a result, they may promote better community integration for residents.

Creating a safe and secure environment

Dementia villages typically prioritize safety and security, often featuring enclosed spaces where residents can move freely without the risk of wandering. For example, doors may be secured, and the area is typically monitored with 24-hour surveillance to prevent disorientation and maintain peace of mind for both residents and their families.

Establishing familiar routines for people living with the disease

Creating a familiar day-to-day environment in dementia villages can establish routines that may ease stress for those living with Alzheimer's disease. A set routine that includes regular mealtimes or morning walks, for example, may make things seem more normal and comforting. Additionally, incorporating familiar cultural or religious practices can further enhance the sense of normalcy and comfort for residents.

Employing trained staff for dementia villages

Staff members in a dementia village are often specially trained to handle the needs of residents with memory care challenges. They are usually trained to communicate effectively and help manage the symptoms of dementia, providing high-quality care and support. Regular training updates and workshops can ensure the staff stays up to date on the latest dementia care techniques.

Encouraging community integration, like in a real town

A dementia village is normally designed to resemble a typical community, which can help residents experience life as a part of society. Activities like shopping at the village grocery store or cafe can offer them an opportunity to stay connected. 

Providing therapeutic activities

Therapeutic activities, which include gardening, music, and art, frequently play an important role in Alzheimer’s care. In a dementia village, these activities can be tailored to the abilities and interests of residents, which may reduce anxiety and improve mood. Introducing pet therapy sessions, during which residents interact with animals, can also provide emotional comfort and stimulation.

Developing personalized care plans

Each resident's needs are unique, which is why personalized care plans tend to be a cornerstone of dementia villages. These plans can ensure that individual preferences and medical requirements are met, promoting better-adjusted and happier residents. Regular reviews and adjustments can ensure that these plans remain effective as the residents' needs change over time.

Facilitating social interaction opportunities

Dementia villages often include communal spaces that encourage social interaction, helping to prevent isolation and improve emotional health. Social activities could range from group exercises to having meals together.

Involving family members

Involving family in the care process can be beneficial. Dementia villages often create opportunities for families to engage with loved ones within the community, maintaining bonds and promoting emotional support. Family visits can be an integral part of the residents' weekly routines. In addition, organizing family-centered events and activities can provide meaningful ways for relatives to stay connected and participate in their loved ones' lives.

Improving wellbeing for people living in the dementia village

The design and operation of dementia villages often reflect an in-depth understanding of Alzheimer’s care. These communities can offer a supportive atmosphere that significantly contributes to the overall well-being of elderly people with dementia. Hence, people who have Alzheimer’s can experience an improved quality of life while living in the village.

Research behind dementia villages

Dementia villages may represent a shift in long-term care, grounded in research that focuses on increasing autonomy for residents. Researchers have observed that these living arrangements may improve the experience of aging and cognitive decline. 

One study reviewed 56 articles on innovative living arrangements for older adults as alternatives to traditional nursing homes, identifying seven types, such as small-scale living and dementia villages. The study found that these arrangements often prioritize autonomy and a homelike environment but lack social and organizational aspects. 

Effectiveness of dementia villages

Many studies suggest that dementia villages can provide a therapeutic environment, more freedom to move around, and a focus on community. However, more research may be needed to confirm the long-term benefits of dementia villages for people with dementia. While there are signs of potential improvements in the quality of life, further studies are likely required to identify the best practices and compare the medical results of these communities with those of traditional care settings.

Alternatives to dementia villages

While the community-focused care approach of a dementia village may be appealing and accessible to some, families and healthcare providers may choose to explore other strategies. Medication management and various types of therapy tend to be common initial treatments in the early stages of dementia.

Medications for improved quality of life

Medications can help manage symptoms, although they cannot cure dementia. Specific medication options may improve cognition, manage behavioral changes, and slow disease progression:

• Cholinesterase inhibitors: Commonly prescribed to treat symptoms related to memory, thinking, language, and judgment
• Glutamate regulators: May improve symptoms by regulating glutamate, an important neurotransmitter in the brain
• Antidepressants: Can assist in managing mood swings and behavioral challenges

Therapy sessions

In addition to medication, therapy sessions can be beneficial. Therapy options include the following:

• Occupational therapy: Can help individuals maintain their skills and promote independence
• Cognitive behavioral therapy: May alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms that often accompany dementia
• Cognitive stimulation therapy: Engages patients in activities designed to improve cognitive function and delay the progression of dementia

Looking for help to manage the stress of a dementia diagnosis?

Seek guidance from a licensed therapist

Online therapy for individuals with dementia

Online therapy has also gained traction as a flexible and accessible way to support individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Online therapy platforms may reduce stress and depression in caregivers and can contribute positively to the overall management of dementia. 

BetterHelp, an online therapy platform, can connect individuals with licensed therapists based on their needs and preferences. Through BetterHelp, caregivers of those with dementia can access professional support from anywhere, at any time. This can be particularly helpful for those who find it difficult to leave their loved ones alone or those who live in rural areas with limited access to mental health services.