Typology of Dementia-Specific Care Units: A Nationwide Survey Study in Germany

Dementia-specific care units vary in their organizational characteristics and are difficult to compare in empirical studies. Based on a representative sample of care units in German nursing homes, we present a typology of organizational characteristics focusing on dementia-specific care structures. We also examine the relationships between organizational types and the provision of nonpharmacological interventions for people with dementia.

Data were collected in a Germany-wide survey of a stratified randomized sample of 134 care units using a standardized questionnaire administered during telephone interviews with nursing home administrators or their representatives. The typology was developed based on a factor analysis of mixed data and a hierarchical cluster analysis.

We identified 4 types of care units: Dementia Care Units (DCUs; n = 40), Dementia Special Care Units (DSCUs; n = 17), Usual Separated Care Units (n = 58), and Usual Incorporated Care Units (n = 19). All care unit types clearly differed in their organizational characteristics. The specialization of DSCUs was agreed upon with cost bearers and included admission criteria, higher costs, and better staff conditions. Dementia Care Units without specialization did not have these characteristics. Three of seven nonpharmacological interventions were associated with the DSCUs and two with DCUs, but not with the other care unit types.

Researchers can use the typology to define and describe care units in empirical studies and improve the understanding and comparability of the context. A clear definition of care units also improves international comparisons.