Dementia-friendly unit opens at care centre

JUDITH TONNER

A new facility for residents with dementia has been created at Carnbroe care centre.

The Katrine unit includes large open living spaces, quiet areas and wifi, and helps “promote meaningful interaction and purposeful activity for residents and their families”.

It will accommodate 14 residents, with the dementia-friendly unit – which is described as “luxurious and stylish” – having been created in an expanded and modernised building at the Paddock Street home.

Staff have all taken part in specialist dementia training and are skilled in the management of stress and distress.

Activities are “carefully chosen to reflect the abilities and personal interests of each resident”, and the group will have their own minibus for excursions.

Care home manager Lynsey Dick said: “The new facilities provide a warm and spacious environment, and will provide a template for further refurbishments at our home.”

The new unit was officially opened by Fulton MacGregor, the Coatbridge MSP, who cut a ribbon during a special event which also included refreshments, a tombola and raffle.

He said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to see the unit in all its glory – what a transformation from what it was before.

“The first thing that strikes me is a very warm welcoming environment, and you can see that people are chatting away and feeling relaxed and at home.”

Represenatives of Carnbroe care centre, which is run by Minster care group, also handed over a £ 700 donation to Airdrieonians FC during the event.

The club’s young players spend time with residents at the care home and keep them up to date with their successes on the pitch, while they are now sporting strips with the care home’s name.

Mr MacGregor is pictured cutting the ribbon at the opening ceremony with (front right) centre manager Lynsey Dick.

Call the care centre on 01236 421893 to find out further details.