Dementia Villages: An Innovative Care Approach for Dementia

Authored By: Emma Davila Art By: Laura Lee Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease affect millions of Americans every year, whether facing a diagnosis themselves or managing the diagnosis of a family member or friend. In fact, 6.2 million Americans over 65 suffer from dementia. This widespread disease severely limits one’s ability to function independently and poses a difficult emotional and financial strain on loved ones [1]. Across the globe, researchers and organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association and the Center for Dementia Research are dedicated to developing a better understanding of the diseases and discovering a cure. As they search for a cure, their research can help inform the development of new treatment management plans and improve patients’ quality of life. One of these new treatment plans is a simulated dementia village or environment.

This new approach was developed after “reality orientation,” a common treatment plan, was found to have negative effects on patients [2]. Reality orientation involves repeated correction of a patient’s disorientation, such as reminding them of the date and whereabouts of their passed loved ones [2]. Frequent practice of this approach has shown that harsh jolts back into reality can be distressing and shocking, leaving patients more confused and anxious than before [2].

These unconventional dementia villages specifically function to avoid distress caused by such whiplash into the present day. Instead of trying to bring the patient back to reality, caregivers allow patients to reside in the reality of their mind, even though it may remain in the past [3]. Patients are not corrected for mistaken timelines or perceptions about where their loved ones are, to avoid hurtful distress [3].

An important aspect of dementia villages is their offering of normalcy to patients. Villages contain simulated grocery and clothing stores, movie theaters, and restaurants, so residents can build normal daily routines and feel part of a community, all in a safe environment [2]. So far, several of these communities have been constructed across the country [2]. They offer 24/7 care for patients, ensuring family members and friends know their loved ones are cared for in an committed and supportive way. This treatment approach recognizes that while dementia and Alzheimer’s patients live with cognitive decline and memory loss, their need for normalcy and desire for activity and action persists [4].

However, recent criticisms highlight how stimulating normal life can become patronizing and raise ethical concerns, as it deceives patients in some ways [2]. Whether or not this deceiving of patients is more beneficial to them than constant corrections to their confusion remains a debate in the Alzheimer’s and dementia community. To many families, it is an essential factor to consider when choosing a care plan. Another key consideration is the cost of such treatment plans as dementia villages are significantly more expensive than other traditional care centers, posing a potential health equity concern. [5]. Because this new approach is still unconventional and being developed, it is unlikely Medicare or private insurance companies will cover all, if any, costs for dementia villages, making it inaccessible to many patients and families [6].

Traditional dementia care has highlighted how dementia patients’ desire for independence and normalcy is often overlooked when their care is designed. The rise of dementia villages suggests that as dementia research efforts continue and inform best care and treatment practices, it is essential to implement opportunities to build a meaningful life with normalcy and independence.

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Karim, Hannah. (2024, September 16). What is a Dementia Village? The Future of Dementia Care. Lottie. https://lottie.org/dementia-support/what-is-a-dementia-village/.