Dementia assessment unit opens at Wascana Rehab Centre

People in southern Saskatchewan dealing with dementia have a new care option.

The Wascana Rehabilitation Centre in Regina will be home to a five-bed assessment unit.

It's for those with dementia exhibiting highly challenging behaviours.

Debbie Sinnett, a spokesperson with the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region, said the design will help patients feel welcome.

"Each thing new can actually create some new behaviours," she said.

"[It creates]an environment that's warm and welcoming that looks like you're going home. That creates a sense of familiarity. We have a greater opportunity to actually reduce that anxiety and potentially reduce those behaviours."

The new dementia unit is not a long-term option. Patients will eventually return to their care home or community facility.