Nestled in a peaceful Langley neighbourhood and covering five acres, is a village like none other in Canada. People affected by symptoms of dementia can now feel safe and enjoy daily living in a community with specialized supports. The Village consists of 6 households with room for 12-13 people in each. Two of the households are for complex care. And the other four are earmarked for those who qualify for assisted living.
A PERSONAL DIRECTED CARE FOR ASSISTED LIVING
The Village Langley marks a significant step in Canada. Towards using person-directed care and person-centered care models for both complex care and assisted living. It is designed to provide independence, safety and comfort. The villagers can enjoy the freedom to live and explore within the secured park-like landscape. Every aspect at The Village was carefully considered to meet the needs of its villagers. From noise levels, to the ease of getting around, to the aesthetic design of the cottages, structures and gardens to evoke a sense of comfort and familiarity. Like most communities, there’s a local grocery store, hair salon, activity centre and café. There are gardens for planting vegetables, leisurely walking paths and a Village Square where neighbours meet up.
A PERSONAL CENTERED APPROACH
Importantly, the person-centered approach to care extends beyond just the design of The Village. It is also at the core of the philosophy and the education programs provided to all staff, volunteers and even family members. As emphasized by Karen Tyrell, a dementia care specialist who spearheads the educational programs at the Village, “It’s important to ensure that everyone is on the same page”. In terms of everyone using the same effective approaches for communicating and supporting the Villagers and assisting with managing any changed behaviours that may arise. A key part of Tyrell’s educational workshops called “Cracking the Dementia Code”. Centers on how to do the detective work necessary to uncover the reasons behind behaviours, and then how to employ creative strategies (i.e. Therapeutic Reasoning) to manage them. It’s an approach that focuses on the person first, beyond their diagnosis of dementia.
LEVELING UP THE CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA
With so many individuals in Canada and around the world affected by dementia. There has been an increased focus on the need to ‘level up’ the way we provide dementia care in our communities. With its multi-faceted approach (such as the physical design, the social opportunities and the emotional supports). All are required to assist in enhancing the day-to-day quality of life for those with dementia. The hope is that The Village Langley will serve as a blueprint for further movement in the world of dementia care. Moving towards a new type of ‘leveled up’ the care we provide to those affected by dementia.
