New dementia unit opened at Wallace House care home, Dunston

Wallace House care home, in Dunston, now has its own state-of-the-art dementia unit, having been officially opened by the Mayor of Gateshead.

Named the Ravensworth Suite by the residents of Wallace House, the unit has been purposely refurbished to aid carers’ contribution to the lives of those with conditions like Alzheimer’s, incorporating themed corridors, coloured doors, and pictures and signage that research has shown benefits those with declining cognitive ability.

The visit of Mayor and councillor Joe Mitchinson was also notable for a meeting with former Mayoress Iris Johnson, who lives at Wallace House and was able to offer a guided tour.

Commenting on the success of the opening, manager Karen William said: ‘It was great to see the Mayor of Gateshead talking to Iris about their civic duties over the years. Iris has been at Wallace House since August last year and will be moving into the new dementia facilities.

‘The new dementia unit will allow Wallace House to offer service for residents who are living with the illness. Specially trained staff support residents and aim to make life as easy as possible.

‘The facilities reflect the very latest research in dementia care, focusing on a person’s abilities. Dementia-signposting will assist with orientation and colour association will make it easier for residents to identify different rooms.’

Wallace House is part of the Bondcare Group who are currently registered as running seventy-five care homes throughout the UK, with a particularly strong presence in the North of England.