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Agrace's Groundbreaking Dementia Village

In a monumental shift for dementia care in America, Agrace, a nonprofit healthcare provider, has announced plans to establish the Ellen & Peter Johnson Dementia Village at Agrace in Madison, Wisconsin. This community, inspired by the internationally recognized Hogeweyk Dementia Village in the Netherlands, promises to revolutionize how dementia patients experience daily life.

A New Model of Care

Informed by the principles that have proven successful in Hogeweyk, the new facility is set to cost $40 million, aiming to reshape how dementia is perceived and treated. Lynne Sexten, President and CEO of Agrace, emphasizes that this isn't merely constructing a new facility; it's about creating a nurturing environment that respects the autonomy and dignity of individuals diagnosed with dementia. "We are launching a movement to transform how people living with dementia experience daily life," she declared.

The Need for Change

The urgency for such a transformative approach arises from the growing number of dementia cases. Currently, approximately 10% of individuals aged 65 and above in Wisconsin are living with Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, caregivers contribute an astounding 300 million hours of unpaid support, often while grappling with their own health challenges. Traditional memory care practices have focused heavily on safety and clinical oversight, often at the expense of autonomy and meaningful engagement with life.

Creating a Home-like Environment

The unique layout of the Village will consist of small households, providing an intimate setting where residents can thrive. Each household will resemble a traditional home, complete with a kitchen, living room, and bedrooms, fostering an environment that feels more like a private residence than an institution. This structure is designed to give residents a sense of normalcy, allowing them to partake in activities they enjoy and maintain connections to the community around them.

Dr. Kenneth Robbins, director of Agrace Memory Care Suites, highlighted the critical role of design in dementia care, stating, "The Dementia Village proves there's another way—one that honors the person, not just manages the disease." This approach aims to ensure that individuals with dementia can continue to live active lives connected to their community.

A Holistic Approach to Dementia

The Dementia Village will not only cater to those permanently residing within it but will also welcome Day Club participants. Those who choose to maintain their independence at home can engage with residents throughout the day, fostering relationships and sharing experiences. The focus will be on holistic well-being, integrating physical activities, community interaction, and outdoor time into daily routines.

Furthermore, Agrace will introduce workforce housing to attract and retain caregiving professionals in the area, addressing the staffing shortages that often challenge long-term care facilities. This innovative move reflects Agrace's commitment to building a sustainable model of care that benefits both residents and staff.

A Community-Centric Vision

Agrace has served as a trusted partner in hospice care for many years, and its expansion into dementia care is a natural progression. The introduction of a Grief Support Center and a Training and Education Center within the campus also signals Agrace’s commitment to supporting the broader community.

The inception of Agrace's Dementia Village is made possible by a substantial $7 million contribution from philanthropists Ellen and Peter Johnson, coupled with a $30 million community capital campaign aimed at fostering communal support. Agrace is determined to cultivate not just a facility, but a movement that prioritizes the dignity and active participation of those living with dementia.

Looking to the Future

Sexten reflects on Agrace’s mission: “Twenty-five years ago, we transformed end-of-life care by proving that dying could be dignified and peaceful. Now, we’re doing it again for people living with dementia.” The addition of the Dementia Village marks the beginning of a new era in memory care, aiming to establish new standards not just in Wisconsin but across the U.S.

To discover more about this transformative initiative, visit Agrace’s website at Agrace.org/Village. Agrace continues to champion high-quality care, aiming to redefine the collective experience of living with and supporting individuals affected by dementia.