02/25/2026
In Fitchburg, Wisconsin, a suburb south of Madison, a health care company called Agrace is launching America’s first “dementia village,” where residents can grab groceries, stroll gardens, dine out, and safely return home — all while being supported by caregivers and other staff.
“We want to create an environment where we restore as much autonomy and personal spontaneity as possible for those living with dementia,” Agrace President Lynne Sexten told WMTV 15 News. The vision — which is inspired by a similar program in the Netherlands — is to make the community feel more like a neighborhood than a nursing home.
The $40 million project is starting construction in the spring and expected to house up to 65 residents next year.
Photo credit: Agrace
