Dementia friendly communities: A concept analysis

Abstract

Objectives

To conceptualize the concept of dementia friendly communities.

Methods

Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis was used to identify the concept, antecedents, attributes and consequences of dementia friendly communities.

Results

Four dimensions of dementia friendly communities' attributes were identified around target population, social life involvement, socio-cultural environment, living space and physical environment. Antecedents of dementia friendly communities were reduced physical and mental health, increased stigma and social isolation of people with dementia and caregivers, required dementia-supportive physical environment and mismatch between supply and demand of care resources. Consequences of dementia friendly communities were increased personal empowerment, reduced financial burden, promotion of dementia inclusion and healthy aging.

Conclusion

The result of the analysis provided a clearer definition of dementia friendly communities, which can be further tested and used to develop guide future research and interventions.