BUSHLAND Health Group took the next step in expanding its care and service programs with the official opening of the 40 suite extensions to the Bushland Place Hostel by Dr Bill McClean.
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All 40 beds will be dedicated to the provision of care for residents who have a primary or significant diagnosis related to dementia.
The chief executive officer of Bushland Health Group, Denis Hawkins said the addition of these beds to the company's Taree operations was important because up until this time the only beds available through the organisation with a comparable care and service programs as an option were offered in through Banyula Lodge at Old Bar.
He said it was important for all to recognise that the need for dementia specific care is expanding and that Bushland Health Group and the majority of residential aged care service providers are now taking this into account as any planning for new and renovated facilities is undertaken.
Mr Hawkins said the extensions were unique with regard to the spacious residents suites and common areas.
He said the fact the basic footprint for the extended building was the former 89 Bushland Place Nursing Home ensured that the new facility with a maximum of 40 residents will be able to allow residents and their families privacy if that is preferred to group activities.
He said the board took a great deal of pleasure in being able to develop the plan to reuse the former nursing home building in such a positive way.
The nursing home was first opened in 1982 after a fundraising appeal with results previously unseen in the Manning Valley and was vacated when the residents were transferred to Karingal Gardens in 2008.
Mr Hawkins said certain areas of the extensions have been named to recognise significant contributions during the early days of the founding organisation Manning Valley Senior Citizens Homes including the Dr Allen Muscio Foyer, the Bushland Place Auxiliary, A W Billingham and Taree RSL Sub Branch Lounges and the more recent contributions of the Taree Lions Club in establishing the Taree Lions Club Sensory Retreat.
He said the invitation to Dr McClean, who is currently the consultant physician in geriatric medicine and conjoint senior lecturer in medicine at the University of Newcastle to carry out the official opening was an important step by the board to recognise of role Dr McClean has played in the community and specifically highlight his leadership and passionate involvement over many years in the aged care programs offered throughout the Manning Valley and beyond.
