Darlington Dementia Unit

This separate, safe and secure Dementia Unit (DU) for 20 residents was opened in November 2008.

Residents requiring this living environment exhibit symptoms of confusion, memory loss, often still mobile and in need of a quiet, safe and calm environment.
During the 2 year period 2008 – 2011, the Dementia Unit has gained an enviable reputation.  The Clinical Services Manager and Dementia Support Team demonstrate exceptional competence and skill resulting in:

• Residents are referred to Darlington Dementia Unit from hospital, secure GEM Unit, ACAT, and other aged Dementia Services with behaviours and symptoms which are unable to be safely and effectively managed.
• Residents are integrated into the Darlington Unit living environment where their daily lives:
• Have a purpose and meaning;
• Relationships are fostered and encouraged;
• Feelings of equality and self-worth are evident;
• Noise levels are minimised;
• Past history information is used as a basis for social planning;
• Family involvement is encouraged when Care Planning is discussed.
  

These results are achieved through the implementation of the philosophy, values and objectives of the “Come Into My World” Dementia Program written and published by Flinders University, South Australia 2009.