Denmark Eldercare Tour 2024: Exploring the Danish Model for Long-Term Care and Senior Living

In May 2024, our team joined a Canadian delegation of 25 stakeholders for an exciting and informative tour of eldercare in Denmark. Organized by the Trade Council of Denmark, this tour brought together directors of operations, directors of care, nurses, and architects from long-term care and retirement facilities across Ontario and Nova Scotia. Our goal was to learn from the Danish healthcare system, particularly its innovative approaches to long-term care and senior living. Our team returned inspired, eager to adapt what we learned to the Canadian context, and excited to implement our ideas within our projects in Ontario.

Learning from Danish Senior Living Models

Our tour featured visits to various types of senior living and long-term care facilities, each showcasing unique approaches to resident care, community integration, and quality of life.

  • Lystoftegaard Cooperative Housing: Located in Skovlunde, Lystoftegaard is a cooperative housing association focused on creating an engaged, mutually-supportive senior community. Residents enjoy private homes with access to shared spaces and regular social gatherings. The flexiblity of this housing model allows older adults to maintain their independence while living in a friendly, neighbourhood setting.
  • Svendborg Dementia Village: This innovative facility reimagines dementia care by creating a ‘village’ environment for residents. The design encourages residents to navigate safely within a familiar, comforting setting. With facilities that mimic real-life environments, including a supermarket and café, Svendborg offers a uniqueand supportive setting for people with dementia.
  • Dagmarsminde Nursing Home: Dagmarsminde is renowned for its holistic, person-centered care philosophy. Inspired by Tom Kitwood’s work in the field of dementia care, the facility integrates sensory stimulation, daily activities, and staff who are trained to see beyond the disease and recognize the unique needs of each individual.

Fribo Holte: This for-profit senior residence exemplifies Denmark’s high standards for senior living with its rowhouse-inspired layout, welcoming communal spaces, and warm, natural materials. With GPS-enabled care and support for dementia residents, Fribo Holte combines Danish design and technology to create a setting where residents can enjoy both autonomy and security.

Technologies Transforming Long-Term Care and Senior Living

Throughout the tour, we explored Denmark’s integration of cutting-edge technologies to enhance senior care. Danish facilities are leveraging both AI and other innovations to improve resident experience and support caregivers. Here are a few highlights:

  • Tovertafel: Seen at various dementia care facilities, the Tovertafel (“Magic Table”) uses interactive light projections to engage residents with dementia in stimulating activities that promote cognitive function and social interaction.
  • Phoniro Lock System: This digital lock system enhances security and efficiency by allowing staff to unlock doors using a smartphone app. This benefits residents who require specialized care, while preserving their independence and autonomy.
  • Wavecare: Wavecare creates sensory rooms using ambient lighting, sounds, and colors to help residents feel calm and relaxed. The technology is often used in dementia care and rehabilitation, where sensory stimulation plays a critical role in comfort and well-being.
  • Guldmann Lifting Solutions: Denmark’s commitment to caregiver support was evident in the widespread use of Guldmann lifting systems. These systems make it easier and more ergonomic to assist residents with mobility issues, thereby reducing physical strain and enhancing safety for both residents and staff.
  • DigiRehab: A software solution that creates individualized exercise programs, DigiRehab empowers older adults to maintain strength and mobility. This technology underscores Denmark’s focus on preventive care by encouraging residents to stay active and engaged.

Applying Danish Lessons to Canadian Senior Living

Our delegation returned from Denmark inspired and committed to reimagining senior care in Canada. While there are regulatory and infrastructural differences between Denmark and Canada, the Danish focus on community, dignity, and technology-driven solutions aligns with our vision for senior living. We are excited to work with local homeowners, operators, and authorities to creatively adapt these insights, with a particular focus on enhancing Ontario’s long-term care and senior living environments.
This experience underscores MMMC’s dedication to elevating care standards and embracing innovation. As we look ahead, we are motivated to develop and integrate solutions that empower residents, support caregivers, and build vibrant, supportive communities for seniors in Canada.