Barwon Health’s new aged care dementia service is offering specialised residential care to people with severe behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia.
The new service at Blakiston Lodge, based at the McKellar Centre in North Geelong, has nine beds dedicated to transitional care, funded through the Commonwealth Government's Specialist Dementia Care Program (SDCP).
Residents will stay for up to 12 months, receiving specialist support and a purpose-built environment to help manage their symptoms, with the aim to return to their usual aged care residence.
This new service is one of 10 across Australia, and is Victoria’s first public SDCP, as well as the first one based in a regional area in Victoria.
Quotes attributable to Blakiston Lodge facility manager Roz Nolan:
- Severe dementia doesn’t have to lead to being isolated and restricted, so like any chronic illness, we want to see people achieve the best possible outcomes.
- The specialised care Barwon Health is now offering will improve quality of life for people living with dementia who find mainstream aged care difficult.
- Our specialist team can care for residents in a conducive home-like environment that will support their transition, both in and out of this new facility over a period that can take between three and 12 months.
- We are committed to collaborating with Dementia Support Australia to ensure comprehensive support for individuals living with severe dementia.
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Click here to learn more about the Specialist Dementia Care Program at Barwon Health.
