A CARE home in Penketh has opened a new unit for residents with dementia.

Green Park Care Home had its Dementia+ unit officially opened by the Mayor of Warrington Cllr Les Morgan on Friday, February 16.

The opening of the new 18-bedroom wing follows a ‘significant investment’ in the Southwold Crescent nursing home.

Orchard Care Homes, which runs Green Park, hopes that the unit will ‘create an enhanced setting that meets the needs of residents with advanced dementia and more complex needs’ while developing a ‘positive working environment’ for staff.

‘Reminiscence rooms’ in the facility have been set out as a parlour and a cafe, while a multi-purpose room will allow for ‘mood-boosting activities’.

Meanwhile, residents will be able to gain easier access to the home’s garden area.

The investment has also seen the introduction of wearable technology that interacts with Green Park’s nursing call system to helps residents to get assistance.

David Williams, interim head of regional operations at Orchard Care Homes, said: “We are delighted to open the new Dementia+ unit at Green Park, which we are confident will play an important role in the care landscape of the local area.

“The facility has been created in consultation with the local authorities and care providers as a response to the growing needs of the community for this type of specialist and enhanced care.

“The use of assistive technology will be key in providing a high level of quality care in a setting that has been designed specifically for those living with greater medical needs, and we look forward to welcoming new residents and new staff to the home.”

Cllr Morgan opened the new facility during an open day at Green Park Care Home, which can house up to 103 residents, for members of the public and healthcare professionals.

Visitors enjoyed coffee and cake with residents and staff.