Transforming aged care : Dutch inspirations

A French delegation visited the Amsterdam region on March 22 and 23, 2023 to discover innovative medico-social care providers. This study trip, co-led by Florence Mathieu from Aïna and Manon Labarchède, architect and doctor in sociology in charge of studies and research at Atelier AA - Human Architecture, was held as part of the training courses offered by Athom (the Academy of the Transformation of Housing and the Medico-Social Offer). This course is intended for nursing home with a restructuring or reconstruction project. After a phase of "virtual" inspiration and on-site work, delegations of professionals bringing together different trades went to the Netherlands to continue their reflections.

Over the course of two intense days, delegates met with leaders of Europe's first Alzheimer's village: de Hogewejk. Half a day of exchanges allowed them to understand the concept and daily functioning of this unique non-profit medico-social institution. Moving from concept to reality has allowed the French professionals to imagine new ways to support elderly people living with Alzheimer's disease so that they can live their lives as close as possible to the ways they lived in their homes. In Pennemes and het Mennistenerf, the Athom delegation met Rutger de Graaf who presented how nature is integrated into the daily functioning of this green nursing home. Plants, animals, daylight are as many natural elements that improve health and morale of the inhabitants and staff on a daily basis.

Professionals from all over France left inspired and boosted by their Dutch study trip, and full of ideas to rebuild or restructure their nursing home in France.