Background Dementia friendly communities (DFCs) are seen as key to participation of people with dementia and carers. Dementia-friendly initiatives (DFI) are important building blocks for the growth of DFCs. Therefore, it is essential to understand how DFIs are developed and sustained to secure the growth of DFCs. This study identifies contextual factors and mechanisms that influence the development and sustainment of Dutch DFIs. It also explains how these contextual factors and mechanisms are interrelated and the outcomes to which they lead. Methods Mixed methods, namely interviews, observations, documentation and focus groups, were used for this realist multiple case study. Participants were professionals (n = 46), volunteers (n = 20), people with dementia (n = 1) and carers (n = 2) who were involved in development and sustainment of DFIs in four Dutch DFCs. Results This study revealed three middle-range program theories as final outcomes: development of a support base, collaboration, and participation in DFIs by people with dementia and carers. These theories address institutional, organisational, interpersonal and individual levels in the community that are essential in development and sustainment of DFIs. Conclusions The development and sustainment of DFIs requires the development of a support base, collaboration, and participation in DFIs by people with dementia and their carers.

Objectives To describe and explain the outcomes of community dementia friendly initiatives (DFIs) for people with dementia and their caregivers to inform the development and tailoring of DFIs. Methods Literature searches on DFIs were performed through two systematic online database searches of PubMed, Embase, ASSIA, CINAHL and Google scholar. Papers were only included if they evaluated outcomes using empirical data from people with dementia or caregivers. Data collection and analysis were guided by the categorization in the DEM‐FACT taxonomy and RAMESES guidelines for realist reviews. Results Of 7154 records identified, 22 papers were included with qualitative, mixed method and quantitative study designs. The synthesis led to a description of programme theories addressing caring, stimulating and activating communities. Outcomes for people with dementia and caregivers included having contact with others, enjoyment and decrease of stress and, lastly, support. This synthesis also indicated how people with dementia participated in a specific role in DFIs, such as patient, team member or active citizen. Conclusions DFIs generate different outcomes for people with dementia and caregivers, depending on the kind of initiative and the specific role for people with dementia. These findings could be a catalyst for initiation and further development of DFIs in a dementia friendly community (DFC). This draws attention to the multiple aspects of DFCs and supports reflection on their essential principles.

Background: This literature review investigates what research reports about the contribution that communities of practice (CoPs) can make in the continuing professional development (CPD) of qualified occupational therapists. Methods: Academic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE and ERIC) were searched and articles were included based on pre-determined criteria. Five articles were included in the review. Results: The CoPs in the reviewed articles provided opportunities for knowledge sharing, knowledge translation, reflection on action and learning through boundary crossing. The presence of professionals with diverse perspectives was an important ingredient that facilitated CPD. Conclusion:Research into the use of CoPs in occupational therapy is sparse. CoPs could provide a CPD forum for occupational therapists whether online or face to face. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in CoPs. Further research into the use of CoPs is recommended.