Alderwoman Mariëlle Vavier has received the Dementia-Friendly City designation from Alzheimer Nederland. With this recognition, the municipality of The Hague demonstrates its active commitment to people with dementia and their caregivers, enabling them to continue participating in daily life comfortably and safely.
Why a dementia-friendly city?
More and more people are experiencing dementia – as patients, caregivers, neighbours, or professionals. The Hague is home to many elderly people, a growing number of whom are developing dementia. Currently, approximately 7,400 people with dementia live in the city.
Alderwoman Mariëlle Vavier: “In recent years, I’ve seen firsthand what small, thoughtful adjustments can mean for people with dementia. A simple forget-me-not path, where you only have to follow the floral tiles to get safely to the shopping centre and back home, can give someone that precious little bit of independence. These experiences demonstrate how important it is that we, as a city, continue to invest in an environment where people with dementia feel free, seen, and supported. Where independence is maintained for as long as possible, and where help is always nearby. This designation is a wonderful recognition of what we’re already doing and an encouragement to keep going.”
The meaning of the predicate
The designation demonstrates that The Hague is paying attention to dementia in various ways. For example, knowledge about recognising dementia and supporting people with it is shared both within the city hall and at key locations throughout the city. Customised support is provided for people with dementia and their caregivers, including suitable housing options, meaningful daytime activities, and sufficient respite care – care to relieve the burden on caregivers. In addition, the municipality actively collaborates with Alzheimer Nederland and the regional dementia network to develop the best possible policy. Residents, shopkeepers, and associations are also involved through training and information sessions, ensuring that people with dementia feel welcome and supported everywhere.
Further development in the future
Dementia-friendliness is a key component of the Senior-Friendly City policy plan, which the municipality will be working on in the coming years. The designation is not an end point, but rather an incentive to do even more.
Text: Gemeente Den Haag
Photo: Martijn Beekman
Translation: The Hague Online