Rethinking Aged Care:
Lessons from Utrecht & Oslo

Over 11 days, an Australian delegation composed of senior leaders in aged care — CEOs, facility directors, and sector experts — explored some of Europe’s most advanced models in the Netherlands and Norway.

Through a combination of seminars, site visits, and peer exchanges, the study tour provided a structured understanding of care systems, while identifying innovative approaches and analysing the key drivers of quality of life, autonomy, and integration between home, community, and residential care.

The first part of the programme took place in Utrecht and across several Dutch cities, widely recognised for their progressive approach to ageing.
From the outset, participants were introduced to the foundations of the Dutch system through an introductory seminar with ActiZ, Vilans and Buurtzorg. This session provided a comprehensive overview of long-term care organisation, the role of key stakeholders, and leading innovations, particularly in dementia care and home-based services.

Site visits then brought these principles to life. In Putten, ZorgErf illustrated a model deeply rooted in everyday living, where care is integrated into daily activities within a natural, home-like environment. In Amsterdam, Cordaan – Oude Raaihighlighted the importance of multidisciplinary coordination and personalised care pathways, combining professional expertise with a warm and structured setting.

In Tilburg, De Leyhoeve offered a distinct perspective by blending care with hospitality, creating an environment focused on comfort, lifestyle, and individual choice. This approach resonates with Breede Vliet (Argos Zorggroep) in Rotterdam, where spatial design — including a central indoor “boulevard” — actively supports social interaction and daily engagement.

The programme continued with Dagelijks Leven, which focuses on small-scale residential care enabling more personalised relationships, and Het Gastenhuis à Warmond, where strong local integration and family involvement contribute to stable and familiar living environments.

Across these experiences, a clear coherence emerges: the development of small-scale, open environments centred on the individual. Moving away from purely institutional models, these approaches prioritise autonomy, continuity of daily life, and meaningful engagement.

The second part of the study tour took place in Oslo and the Hvaler region, offering a complementary perspective through a highly structured Nordic model.

An introductory seminar with Friskus and Norwegian Centre for Ageing and Health provided key insights into the organisation of the Norwegian system, highlighting the central role of municipalities and the importance of territorial coordination.

Visits then illustrated how these principles are implemented in practice. In Oslo, Furuset Hagebydemonstrated a residential model where care is embedded within a socially active and autonomy-supporting environment. Similarly, Vålerengahjemmet, operated by Kirkens Bymisjon, emphasises a deeply human approach centred on relationships, daily life, and dignity.

At Dronning Ingrids Hage the role of architecture and spatial design in enhancing residents’ quality of life became particularly evident, with small, home-like units supporting orientation and social interaction.
Beyond Oslo, the visit to Hvaler Municipality highlighted the importance of local territories, particularly through community engagement and local initiatives. This dimension is reinforced by Generasjon M., which fosters youth involvement, and Motiview, a simple yet effective technological solution supporting physical and cognitive activity.

Taken together, these visits highlight a system where home-based care is a clear priority, supported by strong territorial organisation and active community involvement. The Norwegian model stands out for its ability to integrate care, social connection, and participation.

The exchange between the Australian delegation and European stakeholders provided an opportunity to compare approaches, broaden perspectives, and identify concrete pathways for organisational transformation, within a framework of international cooperation.