Cultural Sensitivity in Memory Care

The field of memory care is constantly evolving. An increasing number of people with dementia and their family members come from diverse cultural backgrounds, and professionals are tasked with meeting them equally and with understanding—even when there is no shared language or cultural background. This online material is intended for memory care professionals who want to develop their work toward greater cultural sensitivity.

A culturally sensitive approach is not just an add-on to professional competence—it is a core element of high-quality and equitable memory care. When a client’s linguistic and cultural background is taken into account, encounters become more humane, trust is strengthened, and the accessibility of services improves. At the same time, the risk of misunderstandings is reduced, and interaction improves, especially when a memory disorder affects communication.

This material offers:

• clear and practical content for developing a culturally sensitive working approach
• four key themes: prejudices in memory care, interaction with a client from a different language background, consideration of cultural background, and cultural sensitivity in client meetings
• short information packages, example stories from everyday memory care work, and tasks that you can complete independently or reflect on in a group, for example together with your work community

The goal is not to provide comprehensive theory, but to spark insights, encourage reflection, and offer support for a more culturally sensitive way of working. Individual encounters are the most important—and every professional has a role in shaping the quality of those encounters.

Also familiarise yourself with the multilingual information leaflets available for clients!