A new dedicated space has been officially opened inside PA Hospital to ensure the highest level of care for some of the most vulnerable patients, being those living with dementia and other cognitive challenges.
The Cognition Support Unit (CSU) is located within the Acute General Medical Ward of 5A, and was designed entirely with older people in mind, said Divisional Director of Medicine Jenny Paton.
“From its physical layout to the model of care, this unit reflects a thoughtful and deliberate approach to meeting the needs of our patients in a way that promotes comfort, safety, and best practice,” she said.
“Dementia is not just a condition; it’s a profound and complex journey both for those affected and for their loved ones. It demands a healthcare approach that is not only clinically excellent, but also deeply compassionate and person-centred.
“With this unit we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that older adults with cognitive impairments receive the tailored, multi-disciplinary care they deserve. Care that respects their dignity, promotes their wellbeing, and enhances their quality of life,” said Jenny.
The unit elevates the previous geriatric consult service to a geriatric footprint in an acute ward.
Professor of Geriatric Medicine Ruth Hubbard said while older people living longer is one of the greatest success stories of our society, it does present challenges to healthcare services.
“The patients who now present to hospital are older and frailer and have complex problems. Older people with dementia and delirium exemplify this patient cohort,” she said.
“By creating an environment specifically designed to meet the needs of these most vulnerable and challenging patients, and having an environment staffed by a team of healthcare professionals with the skills to practice person-centred dementia care and communications, the PA Hospital has shown that these patients are valued.”
The official opening of the CSU was held on 31 January, but it’s been operational since September 2024.
“Formal evaluation is underway, but I am convinced of the benefits to patients which has been evident in the many expressions of support we’ve had from caregivers and letters we’ve received. I am also convinced of the benefits to staff,” Prof Hubbard said, reflecting on CSU’s connection to the peaceful wards initiative.
The creation and implementation of the CSU would not have been possible without the tireless dedication of staff, particularly the medical leads Associate Professor Emily Gordon and Dr Lisa Kelly, Dr Fred Graham from the Dementia and Delirium Nursing Service and the Nurse Unit Manager Ligi George.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to the PA Research Foundation for their generosity in funding the furniture for the unit because creating a space that is not only functional, but warm and welcoming is essential,” Jenny said.
Foundation Chief Executive Officer Damian Topp said the purchase of furniture is just one of many ways in which the organisation supports patients.
“Where the staff identify a need to us that will benefit patients and help them to have improved outcomes will always do what we can to get behind it in some way,” he said.
“Patients and those they love often spend hours at a time in hospital so we’re proud to fund initiatives like new furniture to make that time for them more comfortable.
“Our incredible supporters trust us as the stewards of their generosity, to fund projects like this and others that have tangible positive outcomes on patients, visitors and staff and improve the hospital experience.”
Members of the PA Hospital's executive and Cognition Support Unit staff celebrate the opening of the new dedicated space.
The furniture in the unit was made possible by the donors and supporters of the PA Foundation.
