The Geriatric Dementia Unit is a 23-bed inpatient unit at Ontario Shores that provides specialized services to meet the mental health needs of patients with dementia and challenging behaviours. An interprofessional healthcare team provides a range of psychogeriatric resources to address the assessment, diagnostic, treatment and transitional care needs of seniors with complex mental health challenges.
What we do on the Geriatric Dementia Unit (GDU)
- Comprehensive assessments provided by an interprofessional team that identify mental health issues, clarify diagnosis and identify possible factors that contribute to challenging behaviours
- Individualized care plans, which are developed to manage symptoms, address needs and develop management techniques
- Education for patients, families and caregivers
- Discharge planning to assist patients as they transition into the community or long-term care
What makes the GDU unique?
- The most responsible provider for patients on GDU is a nurse practitioner who works with a consulting psychiatrist to manage the medical and psychiatric needs of our population.
- The GDU team is highly skilled and experienced in managing responsive behaviours. Their approach to care and use of non-pharmacological interventions to support stabilization leads to an improvement in quality of life. The teams’ learnings are shared with the referring facility to ensure continuity in care of our patients.
Age
For ages 65+
Inclusion Criteria
Individuals usually 65 years old and older who are medically stable and have age-related dementia, showing signs of behavioural disturbance and resistance to treatment. Individuals under 65 who fit diagnostic criteria will be considered on a case by case basis.
Service Access
Referrals are accepted from hospitals and long term care facilities as well as from other Ontario Shores inpatient units. All referrals are welcome, including those from outside our primary service area.
