Micro-town gives people with cognitive impairment, dementia independence and social engagement

A small community in Bellmere, just north of Brisbane, is turning the traditional aged care model on its head, providing a sense of independence, engagement and normalcy to its 120 residents, many of whom live with cognitive impairment such as dementia.

The micro-town has as all the facilities you might expect: a cinema, corner store, cafe, beauty salon, GP, dentist and even a town centre.

“It’s essentially just like a little suburb but it caters to older people and people who are living with a disability,” New Direction Care CEO Natasha Chadwick told ABC Radio Brisbane.