The $1.1million dementia unit at the Mid Richmond Residents Village at Coraki is open and the first residents have moved in.

The unit is attached to the main Mid Richmond Residents Village and all rooms have en-suites. There is a large activities space with television, a fish tank and armchairs. There is a kitchen and garden for residents to wander in.

Richmond Valley Council General Manager, Brian Wilkinson said the six bed unit would add to the facilities at the 39 bed Commonwealth Government funded Mid Richmond Residents Village operated by Council.

Mr. Wilkinson said construction of the $1.1 million Dementia Specific Unit by Bennet constructions commenced in December 2007 and was completed and handed over in July 2008. The name of the Dementia Unit - "Fairway Cottage" - was chosen by popular vote by the residents.

"Completion of the Mid Richmond Residents Village Dementia Unit is a further asset for the community and will strengthen the provision of ongoing aged care services at Coraki," Mr. Wilkinson said.

Richmond Valley Mayor Charlie Cox said the community has been waiting for the unit since the allocation of six beds was received from the Commonwealth Depar;tment of Health and Ageing in 2003.

“This unit enables residents with dementia to age in place," Mayor Cox said.

"The Alzheimer's Australia Guidelines of a Person Centred Approach are being practiced and this identifies the individual needs of each resident, providing holistic care in relation to physical and mental health issues. This also ensures appropriately qualified staff are assigned to meet these care needs.

"The Federal Government provided an amount of $300,000 towards construction of the Unit with additional funds being provided by the Council, the Fund Raising Committee and bequests."

Preparations are now underway for the official opening by the Hon Justine Elliot, MP, Minister for Ageing on Saturday, 27 September at 10.00 am.  The opening will be followed by the 25th anniversary fete to commence at 11.00 am.  Members of the community are invited to attend.

Mr Wilkinson said there are currently vacancies in the unit.

"If members of the community are seeking this type of accommodation for a family member, they should contact Carol Thurgate, Facility Manager or Kerrie Scotcher, Care Services Coordinator on 6683 2420."

Further information can be obtained by contacting Council's Director Corporate Services, Wayne Halcrow on 6660 0312.