Thanks to the generous support of the Crown Oak Foundation, 11 Network and member agency professionals attended the Foundation’s seminar, “Improving Quality of Life for People Living with Dementia,” from October 27-31 at The Hogeweyk near Amsterdam. The purpose of this Professional Study Visit was to learn the core concepts of this world renowned center that provides dignity and autonomy to those living with severe dementia. The Hogeweyk model is based on a strong belief in deinstitutionalization of care, reduction of isolation and the need to normalize life for people with dementia and include them in society.

This was The Network’s third visit to The Hogeweyk. Participating in this professional study visit were Network staff, Tricia Stern, Chief Practice and Learning Officer, along with 10 staff from five Network agencies: Jewish Community Services Baltimore, Jewish Family Service of Colorado, Jewish Family Services Edmonton, Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services, and Jewish Family Services Hartford and two Network Special Interest Member Organizations: Jewish Home and Senior Living Foundation and 2Life Communities.

Through an immersive and in-depth learning experience at The Hogeweyk, the 11 participants learned firsthand about this groundbreaking and person-centered approach to dementia care. They explored the principles and philosophy behind the model and successful care tools and approaches. They learned how The Hogeweyk model can be used in diverse care settings and were provided consultation on how it could be adapted within their organizations.

Not just reading or hearing about, but actually being able to see firsthand, this unique approach to dementia care inspired the 11 participants to want to continue their learning about the model and its potential adaption to their own communities.

Building on the enthusiasm and interest of the Study’s participants, The Network is exploring a series of follow up activities together with the Crown Oak Foundation, including additional professional study visits to The Hogeweyk, trainings on the model for Network members, agency consultations by The Hogeweyk team on local adaptation, and microgrants to help with implementation of the model.