Dementia Friendly Communities in England: A scoping study

Stefanie Buckner , Nicole Darlington, Michael Woodward , Marina Buswell, Elspeth Mathie, Antony Arthur , Louise Lafortune, Anne Killet , Andrea Mayrhofer, John Thurman , Claire Goodman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

19 Citations (Scopus)
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Abstract

Objectives: To describe the characteristics of Dementia Friendly Communities (DFCs) across England in order to inform a national evaluation of their impact on the lives of those affected by dementia. Methods: DFCs in England were identified through online searches and Alzheimer's Society records. A subsample (n = 100) were purposively selected for in-depth study based on online searches and, where necessary, follow-up telephone calls. Data collection and analysis were guided by a pilot evaluation tool for DFCs that addressed how DFCs are organised and resourced and how their impact is assessed. The evidence was predominantly qualitative, in addition to some descriptive quantitative information. Results: Of 284 DFCs identified, 251 were defined by geographical location, while 33 were communities of interest. Among 100 sampled DFCs, 89 had been set up or started activities following policy endorsement of DFCs in 2012. In the resourcing of DFCs, statutory agencies and charities played an important role. Among DFC activities, awareness raising was cited most commonly. There was some evidence of involvement of people living with dementia in organisational and operational aspects of DFCs. Approaches to evaluation varied, with little evidence of findings having effected change. Conclusions: DFCs are characterised by variation in type, resourcing, and activities. England has policy endorsement and a recognition system for DFCs. These can be important catalysts for initiation and growth. A systematic approach to evaluation is lacking. This would enable DFCs to be consistent in how they demonstrate progress and how they enable people living with dementia to live well.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1235-1243
Number of pages9
JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry
Volume34
Issue number8
Early online date16 Apr 2019
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Aug 2019

Keywords

  • health and medicine - general
  • awareness raising
  • evaluation tool
  • inclusion
  • Dementia Friendly Communities
  • England
  • older adults
  • dementia
  • online data

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