NARRATE-D; Reimagining Libraries as Dementia-friendly Hubs

2026-07-22

As Europe’s population ages, dementia has become one of the most pressing public health and social inclusion challenges. Over 10 million people in the EU live with dementia, and this number is expected to double by 2050 (Alz Europe 2022). Yet, social stigma, lack of understanding & inadequate accessibility continue to isolate dementia patients & their caregivers from public life, including cultural and educational opportunities. Libraries & bookshops, as local, & trusted community spaces, are uniquely positioned to support people with dementia and their caregivers, promote awareness, foster inclusive & intergenerational engagement. However, most libraries don’t have trained staff or experiences designed for them. Recent developments in dementia care have highlighted the therapeutic benefits of cultural activities as non-pharmacological interventions. In Switzerland, doctors can now prescribe free museum visits to patients as part of an initiative aimed at improving mental & physical health. Similarly, the Culture on Prescription project in Europe aims to prevent and combat social isolation & loneliness through art and culture, demonstrating the growing recognition of cultural engagement in healthcare. These initiatives underscore the potential of creating a new audience for libraries and bookshops through transforming them into dementia-friendly environments that offer inclusive cultural experiences. Research supports the efficacy of cultural & artistic engagement in improving mood, reducing agitation, and enhancing the quality of life for those with dementia. In NARRATE-D we aim to create a transformative cultural environment within libraries, helping to establish them as community hubs for dementia-friendly activities. This innovative methodology seeks to integrate cultural activities into dementia care in a way that is accessible, inclusive & socially enriching, thus promoting a deeper sense of beloning & well-being for dementia patients and their caregivers.

Greece, Italy, Ireland

2026-02-15