America's First Dementia Village to Open in Wisconsin in 2027
Wisconsin is set to become home to America's first dementia village, a groundbreaking $40 million project that aims to revolutionize memory healthcare for 65 residents. The innovative community, scheduled to open in September 2027 on Agrace's Madison campus, will mimic a small town environment to provide independence and routine for those living with memory loss conditions.
Modeled After Dutch Success Story
The Wisconsin dementia village is directly inspired by the Hogeweyk Dementia Village in the Netherlands, which has transformed dementia care across Europe, Australia, Canada, and China since its 2009 opening. This model prioritizes living over institutionalized care, with co-founder Eloy van Hal describing it as "95 percent about living and five percent about care."
"Living at this campus will not feel like an institution," said Agrace CEO Lynee Sexten. "We are building individual households that look and feel just like a home. All the things that you have in a traditional home today will be replicated here within the village."
Community Living Design
The village will feature:
- Households of eight residents each
- A grocery store, hair salon, and other town amenities
- Medical staff on site to assist with daily activities
- Opportunities for residents to shop, dine out, and maintain social connections
Residents will live in the community until they die, maintaining an active social life while receiving necessary care. The village will also accommodate up to 50 day visitors daily who can participate in community activities without residing there permanently.
Addressing Growing Dementia Crisis
The project responds to significant challenges in dementia care across the United States. Sexten noted that many American families are dissatisfied with current care options for loved ones with dementia, a condition expected to surge in coming years.
"We want to create an environment where we restore as much autonomy and personal spontaneity as possible for those living with dementia," Sexten told WMTV.
Wisconsin faces particular urgency, with nearly 11 percent of residents over 65 having Alzheimer's disease, the most common dementia type. Dementia is the seventh leading cause of death in the state, and projections show cases rising from approximately 135,500 in 2025 to nearly 215,000 by 2040.
Funding and Accessibility
The $40 million project received a $7 million donation from Madison-based philanthropists Ellen and Peter Johnson. While exact costs haven't been finalized, an Agrace spokesperson indicated monthly rates would be comparable to assisted living facilities, with room and board paid by families and medical expenses covered by insurance.
The organization has established an endowment to provide sliding fee scales for those who cannot afford full costs. Already, more than 100 people have signed up for application notifications when they become available.
Global Impact and Philosophy
The dementia village concept represents a fundamental shift in how society approaches memory care. Yvonne van Amerongen, co-founder of Hogeweyk, explained their philosophy: "We want to help people enjoy life and feel that they are welcome here on this earth."
This approach has created a ripple effect in dementia care worldwide, now reaching American shores as the global dementia population reaches 57 million people according to World Health Organization 2021 data.
The Johnson philanthropists emphasized the project's significance, stating: "The need is so incredible, and this project demonstrates that Agrace is a leader in memory care." As the 2027 opening approaches, this Wisconsin initiative promises to offer a new paradigm for dementia care that prioritizes dignity, community, and quality of life over institutionalization.
