Pathways to Culturally Safe Dementia Care (CSDC): A Concept Analysis and Transformational Model for Practitioners and Organizations

Culturally safe dementia care (CSDC) remains inconsistently defined, which makes it difficult for health professionals and researchers to operationalize in practice. To clarify CSDC, we conducted a concept analysis using Rodgers’ evolutionary method. Eighteen records from diverse cultural groups and care settings were included. Prominent surrogate terms were cultural sensitivity, cultural competency, and cultural appropriateness, while common related terms were person-centred care, compassionate care, and holistic care. Antecedents included provider awareness through self-reflection and commitment to continuous learning, as well as structural, organizational support. Core attributes of CSDC focused on provider qualities such as demonstrating respect, building trust, using culturally responsive communication, and applying holistic and strengths-based approaches; other attributes pointed to organizational responsibilities like creating affirming care environments, providing information, and honouring cultural preferences. Consequences consisted of reduced social isolation and fear of discrimination, and improved trust, care experiences, and quality of life. This analysis emphasizes that CSDC requires ongoing reflection, meaningful engagement, and system-wide accountability. Importantly, CSDC must be co-created with families and communities and should be rooted in their knowledge systems, histories, and priorities. To support application, we share a conceptual model and four model cases to illustrate CSDC in both urban and rural healthcare settings. The model offers a practical pathway that can guide care providers and organizations in implementing culturally safe approaches. Clearer operational frameworks and community-led strategies are needed to move from intention to sustained, culturally grounded practice.