BEYOND THE CLINIC WALLS: HOW COMPREHENSIVE DEMENTIA CARE FOSTERS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Abstract Comprehensive dementia care is a holistic approach to the complex medical and social needs of persons living with dementia and their caregivers. Six major evidence-based care models are being disseminated, each demonstrating psychosocial and healthcare-related benefits for patient and caregiver. This qualitative study explores how these models are delivered and create an environment that fosters community engagement. Semi-structured virtual interviews with at least two stakeholders (n = 44 interviewees) per organization (n = 22 organizations) across the six dementia care models were conducted, ranging from 29-58 minutes. Participants included managers (25%), care providers (43.2%), and individuals who held both roles (31.8%). Most organizations were healthcare systems (54.5%), while 45.5% were community-based. Qualitative codes were developed inductively and deductively, and thematic analysis was conducted. The following themes emerged indicating that some programs 1) Enhanced care coordination through structured community partnerships and having staff deliver services directly in the community (e.g., improving access to resources like meal delivery services and adult day services, using community-health workers who did home visits) (community embeddedness); 2) Used virtual communication methods to expand service coverage, enabling more frequent and broader community engagement (community expansion); 3) Created social support and educational opportunities for patients and caregivers to provide emotional support, foster caregiving self-efficacy, and promote community among other patients and caregivers (e.g., support programs, dementia education programs/virtual calls, memory cafes) (community creation). These findings highlight how comprehensive dementia care programs foster care coordination, enhance accessibility, and provide essential social and educational support for patients and caregivers.