Developing and Sustaining Dementia Capable Communities: An Analysis of the Current Evidence

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Community Development

Background:

• Exclusion, marginalization, and stigma negatively impact individuals living with dementia.
• Dementia-capable communities aim to enhance the wellbeing of people with dementia and their care partners.
• Existing research offers various approaches to developing and implementing dementia-capable communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing literature on dementia-capable communities.
• To identify key strategies, challenges, and recommendations for fostering dementia-capable communities across disciplines.
• To highlight gaps in the current understanding, particularly regarding systemic policy analysis.

Main Methods:

• A review of reviews methodology was employed.
• Analysis focused on review articles concerning the development and implementation of dementia-capable communities.
• Key aspects examined included methods, evidence base, approaches, and recommendations.

Main Results:

• Engaging diverse stakeholders and fostering collaboration are crucial.
• Promoting dementia awareness and actively addressing stigma are essential.
• Policy regulations, planning guidelines, and accessible built environments are key facilitators.
• Social and community-based supports significantly enhance connection and wellbeing.

Conclusions:

• Developing dementia-capable communities requires a multi-faceted approach.
• Policy and political conditions need critical analysis for sustainable community development.
• Addressing systemic challenges is vital for creating inclusive and thriving environments for people with dementia.