The launch of an assisted-living space will bring support to people living with dementia in the community.

Dementia Partners have opened their shared home with space for six older people with dementia in Kingsfield Road, Watford on Friday, September 15.

The opening was attended by many local officials including the Mayor of Hertsmere Councillor Charles Goldstein, Chairman of Watford Borough Council Councillor Jacgtar Singh Dhindsa, Deputy Mayor of Watford Councillor Peter Taylor.

The property will act as a half-way house enabling hospitals to discharge patients quicker while knowing they will be in a safe space to recover.

The scheme hopes to save money for both the health and social care services by giving residents care and support to manage long-term conditions.

The initiative was backed by the Hertfordshire County Council’s commissioners for services for older people as viable new option to provide care for people with dementia.

The charity is now being signposted as an option for those needing care by social workers and the hospital discharge teams, and the home works closely with both teams and occupational therapists to provide the right treatment.

Sheltered accommodation has proved to be effective in providing support for people living with learning difficulties or mental health problems, but is a new concept in terms of dementia care.

Dementia Partners Director Reeta Ram said: “People with dementia have more limited choice. Living in a self-contained flat with dementia is not suitable because of social isolation and long term care and support needs.

“The alternative may all too often be costly residential care schemes, which may not fully support people’s independence and self-determination.

“Sheltered housing is a long-standing example of how a housing type provides the foundation for a good life, it can sustain supportive communities and tackle the growing challenge of social isolation amongst older people.”

For more information about the organisation visit http://dementiapartners.com/.