Lee Manor in Owen Sound is one of 17 long-term care homes receiving part of $9 million in provincial funding for special dementia treatment programming.
The provincial government announced on February 24 that the government is investing $9 million over three years in the new Improving Dementia Care Program (IDCP), with an increase in access to behavioural specialized units (BSUs).
This program was launched in the fall of 2025, and Lee Manor is among the first of 17 long-term care homes in Ontario to get funding that the provincial government claims will eventually reach nearly 50 homes by 2027-28.
Additionally, the provincial government says it is investing $3.35 million in 2025-26 and $9.82 million annually from 2026-27 onward to add up to 153 BSU beds in five long-term care homes across the province. According to the province, BSUs "provide person-centred care by specialized staff who tailor therapies to the individual, based on their physical, emotional, and cultural needs."
Overall, the government claims that the new Improving Dementia Care Program aims to "better support residents living with dementia and is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario’s long-term care system by making targeted investments that ensure residents get the quality of care and quality of life they need and deserve."
"Our government is investing in dementia care and supports to improve the well-being of long-term care residents, their caregivers and families," said Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care. "These innovative programs and specialized units will support people living with dementia and their loved ones, while improving the work experience of staff."
More information is available here.
