Bene Aged Care opens Specialist Dementia Care Unit - the first in Adelaide's northern suburbs

Bene Aged Care today opened Adelaide’s third Specialist Dementia Care Unit (SDCU) - the first in the northern suburbs.

This new unit will offer a compassionate, person-centred approach to care for individuals living with severe dementia, including those experiencing challenging behaviours and psychological symptoms of dementia, in a secure and supportive environment.

Funded by the Albanese Government, Bene’s SDCU will provide up to nine beds and will be staffed by a specially trained team.

The Bene team will work collaboratively with local health services, Dementia Support Australia, and the Department of Health to deliver the highest standard of care.

The opening of Bene’s SDCU comes at a time when many individuals living with dementia are waiting in hospital for a suitable place in a facility equipped to manage their complex needs.

“Today’s opening is a significant milestone for our community,” said Andrew McFarlane, Bene Aged Care’s Chief Executive Officer.

“This new unit will offer a fresh approach to dementia care, setting a new benchmark for excellence in compassionate, evidence-based support,” Mr McFarlane said.

“We’re deeply proud to provide a space where individuals can receive the person-centred care they deserve, tailored to their needs, preferences, and cultural background.”

For many people, the SDCU will provide a chance for their symptoms to stabilise, potentially reducing the need for intensive care or hospitalisation in the future.

“Without the generous support of the Department of Health and the federally funded Specialist Dementia Care Program, units like ours wouldn’t be possible,” Mr McFarlane added.

“This program is vital for ensuring that older people with challenging behaviours have a place where they can receive the care they need.”

Federal Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler said people with dementia, families and carers deserve dignified specialist care.

“Our government is committed to delivering dementia-focused care and this specialist unit will provide the care needed in the northern suburbs of Adelaide,” said Minister Butler.

The first person will begin moving into the unit next week, marking the beginning of a new chapter in dementia care for Adelaide’s northern suburbs.

With this new unit, Bene Aged Care is proud to continue its mission to provide inclusive, respectful, and tailored care that enhances the lives of older Australians, especially those living with dementia.

About Bene

Bene Aged Care, a non-profit organisation proudly owned by the Italian Benevolent Foundation SA, has been providing high quality, culturally sensitive aged care since 1974.

With four aged care facilities across South Australia, Bene continues to uphold its commitment to meeting the unique cultural, spiritual, and social needs of every older person.

For more information, visit https://www.bene.org.au.