14/07/2026
Did you know? The Netherlands have an entire village created for individuals living with dementia.
In the Netherlands, there's an incredible place called De Hogeweyk, a purpose-built "dementia village" that has transformed the way people with dementia are cared for.
Instead of living in a traditional care home with long corridors and locked wards, residents live in a safe, secure neighbourhood that looks and feels like a normal village. All staff are medically trained and the residents of the village dont have to pay gor any items in shops.
🏡 Residents live in real homes
- Small households of 6–7 people.
- Homes are designed around residents' lifestyles and interests.
- The décor, meals, and routines feel familiar and comforting.
☕ Everyday life continues
Residents can:
- Walk freely around the village.
- Visit a supermarket, café, restaurant, pub, hairdresser, and theatre.
- Enjoy gardens and outdoor spaces.
- Help with cooking, shopping, gardening, and household tasks.
The entire village is enclosed, so residents have the freedom to explore without the risk of wandering away.
❤️ Care with dignity
Staff don't just provide medical care they become part of daily life, often wearing everyday clothes instead of uniforms. They encourage independence rather than doing everything for residents.
Instead of focusing on what people can no longer do, the focus is on what they can still do.
🌿 The benefits
Studies and experience have shown residents often:
✔️ Feel happier and less anxious.
✔️ Stay more physically active.
✔️ Have more social interaction.
✔️ Need fewer medications for agitation and behavioural symptoms.
✔️ Enjoy a greater sense of purpose, routine, and independence.
✔️ Experience a better overall quality of life.
🧠 It's not a cure for dementia.
But it shows that the environment people live in can make an enormous difference to their wellbeing.
This model has inspired similar communities around the world and is changing the conversation about dementia care—from simply keeping people safe to helping them continue living meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Imagine if more countries invested in care like this. Everyone deserves to live with dignity, purpose, and compassion, no matter their diagnosis.
Whats your opinions on this? 💙