belevingsgerichte

Belevingsgerichte is a term used in Dutch care and education to describe an approach that prioritizes the subjective experience (beleving) of individuals. The goal is to create meaningful, emotionally positive experiences by aligning activities, environment and interactions with what matters to the person.

It emerged as part of the broader shift toward person-centered care in the Netherlands and Flanders, particularly in dementia care, and draws on elements from reminiscence therapy and sensory-based interventions. Belevingsgerichte care focuses on mood, comfort, identity and belonging rather than only tasks or physical care.

Key components include individualized care plans, sensory-rich activities tailored to interests and history, familiar settings, and involvement of family and staff. Interventions may involve music, storytelling, cooking, gardening, touch and scent, or outings designed around the person's preferences. The approach often uses small, controllable activities to reduce agitation and increase engagement.

Implementation requires training for care workers, adequate staffing, and supportive management. Critics point to challenges in measuring outcomes and in maintaining consistency across shifts; advantages include improved well-being, reduced behavioral symptoms, and enhanced personhood.

Belevingsgerichte care is related to, and often integrated with, person-centered care, reminiscence therapy and sensory integration. It is applied in elder care, dementia care, and some youth or education settings to foster meaningful participation and improve quality of life.