What is The Village Langley dementia care model?
The Village Langley in British Columbia is a dementia-focused community designed to feel like a small neighbourhood rather than a traditional long-term care facility. It consists of multiple cottage-style homes set on a secure, park-like property with gardens, walking paths and communal amenities that mimic everyday life. Residents can explore safely and engage in daily tasks that resemble normal neighbourhood experiences. This approach prioritizes dignity, autonomy and meaningful engagement for people living with dementia.
A village-style alternative to traditional care
Unlike typical nursing homes with hospital-like corridors and institutional routines, The Village features six houses with private rooms clustered around common spaces like kitchens, living rooms and activity areas. There’s also a village centre with a café, store, salon and other features that resemble ordinary community spots. Residents are often called “villagers,” and the design encourages them to move about, socialise and participate in activities that reflect their interests and preferences, helping maintain a sense of normalcy and purpose.
Inspired by international models
This model is inspired by dementia villages first developed in the Netherlands, where care focuses on supporting residents’ agency and freedom within a secure setting. The Village Langley adapts those principles to a Canadian context, aiming to reduce the institutional feel and encourage social connection, engagement with nature, and choice in daily life.
Evolving with a nature-based research focus
The Village is also at the centre of new research collaboration with Simon Fraser University and McMaster University to study how combining village-style living with nature-based programming like gardens and farm-style activities might benefit residents’ well-being. Participants will be observed for cognitive, social and mental health effects as part of efforts to inform future dementia care practices in Canada.
Broader significance and challenges
Care experts see The Village Langley as a promising alternative to conventional long-term care, especially as dementia rates rise. The community-oriented, person-centred model offers richer human connection and autonomy than many standard facilities. At the same time, its private, premium nature means cost and accessibility remain important questions for broader adoption.
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