The Ontario government says it is taking steps to improve dementia care in long-term care homes across the province.
The province has announced the first 17 homes that will take part in the new Improving Dementia Care Program. The government is investing $9 million over three years in the program to better support residents living with dementia. The funding is part of Ontario’s broader plan to strengthen the long-term care system and improve quality of life for residents.
The program launched in September 2025. The province plans to expand it to nearly 50 long-term care homes by 2027-28. Through the program, homes will use emotion-based care models and provide staff with special training. The goal is to better meet the needs of residents with dementia and build stronger relationships between staff, residents and families.
Ontario is also increasing access to behavioural specialized units. The government will invest $3.35 million in 2025-26 and $9.82 million each year starting in 2026-27 to add up to 153 new BSU beds in five long-term care homes.
BSUs provide care from specially trained staff who tailor treatment to each resident’s physical, emotional and cultural needs. This allows residents to receive proper care in a long-term care home instead of being sent to hospital, helping to keep hospital beds available for others who need them.
The government says improving dementia care is part of its larger plan to strengthen long-term care. The plan focuses on staffing and care, quality and enforcement, building modern and safe homes, and improving access to services for seniors.