Adelaide's northern suburbs gain first specialist dementia care unit

A new specialist dementia care unit has been opened by Bene Aged Care — marking the third in Adelaide and first in the northern suburbs. Providing up to nine beds and to be staffed by a specially trained team, in a secure and supportive environment the unit aims to offer a compassionate, person-centred approach to care for individuals living with severe dementia, including those experiencing challenging behaviours and psychological symptoms of dementia.

“This new unit will offer a fresh approach to dementia care, setting a new benchmark for excellence in compassionate, evidence-based support,” said Andrew McFarlane, Bene Aged Care’s Chief Executive Officer. “We’re deeply proud to provide a space where individuals can receive the person-centred care they deserve, tailored to their needs, preferences, and cultural background.”

(L to R): Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Ageing, Antonio Cocchiaro, Chair, Bene Aged Care and Andrew McFarlane, CEO Bene Aged Care. (Supplied)

Funded by the federal government, in a statement, Bene Aged Care said that, for many people, the unit “will provide a chance for their symptoms to stabilise, potentially reducing the need for intensive care or hospitalisation in the future”. “Without the generous support of the Department of Health and the federally funded Specialist Dementia Care Program, units like ours wouldn’t be possible,” McFarlane added.

“Our government is committed to delivering dementia-focused care and this specialist unit will provide the care needed in the northern suburbs of Adelaide,” said Federal Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler. McFarlane added: “This program is vital for ensuring that older people with challenging behaviours have a place where they can receive the care they need.”

(L to R): Marie Alford, General Manager, Growth & Innovation National Programs Hammond Care, Antonio Cocchiaro, Chair, Bene Aged Care, Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Ageing, Sunny Traverse, Director of Residential Aged Care, Bene Aged Care and Dr Carmine De Pasquale, Founder, Bene Aged Care. (Supplied)

With the first person expected to begin moving into the unit this week, Bene Aged Care said its team will work collaboratively with local health services, Dementia Support Australia, and the Department of Health to deliver the highest standard of care.

Top image (L to R): Antonio Cocchiaro, Chair, Bene, Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Ageing and Andrew McFarlane, CEO Bene Aged Care. (Supplied)