Strengthening Dementia-Friendly Communities for Improving the Quality of Life and Social Inclusion of Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease: A narrative review

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has emerged as a global public health concern, owing to the aging population and limited number of available treatment options. The objectives of the current review are to enlist the impact of dementia, explain the scope of dementia-friendly communities (DFCs), enumerate the role of DFCs in AD, identify the challenges involved in the implementation of DFCs, and propose targeted solutions to overcome these identified challenges. An extensive search of all materials related to the topic was carried out using the PubMed search engine, and relevant research articles focusing on the role of DFCs in AD, published during the period 2017 to 2024 were included in the review. Initially, 35 articles were identified, which were screened for eligibility, and subsequently, 24 articles were selected based on their suitability with the current review objectives and analyzed. DFCs give a platform for people with dementia to live well and be independent for as long as possible in an inclusive and supportive environment. Although social inclusion activities and DFC can extend benefits to individuals with AD in multiple ways, we have not been successful in reducing the extent of the problem, and this is because of the presence of multiple challenges or considerations that must be overcome. In conclusion, people with AD experience a wide range of challenges, due to which they cannot lead a respectful and dignified life. DFCs play a significant role in reducing stigma, improving safety and accessibility, and facilitating social inclusion of these vulnerable segments of society.