Ontario Launches $9 Million Program to Improve Dementia Care in Long-Term Care Homes

TORONTO — The Ontario government has announced a $9 million investment over three years to launch the Improving Dementia Care Program (IDCP), a new initiative designed to strengthen care for long-term care residents living with dementia.

The program introduces emotion-based models of care — an approach that focuses on personal connections, tailored support, and prioritizing the emotional and social needs of residents alongside their medical requirements.

Enhancing Quality of Life for Residents

According to the Ministry of Long-Term Care, the IDCP is expected to serve approximately 1,800 residents in its first year. The program will support staff training, introduce new resident-focused activities, and create closer partnerships between caregivers, residents, and families.

Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Ontario’s Minister of Long-Term Care, said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to both residents and frontline staff.

“Our government is proud to invest in innovative dementia care and supports to improve the well-being of long-term care residents, their caregivers and families,” said Kusendova-Bashta. “Through initiatives like the Improving Dementia Care Program, we can improve the quality of care for residents while improving the work experience of staff.”

Emotion-Based Care Models

Emotion-based models of care are widely recognized for improving the well-being of people living with dementia by focusing on comfort, familiarity, and meaningful daily interactions. Instead of solely addressing clinical needs, this approach emphasizes creating an environment where residents feel valued, connected, and supported.

By training long-term care staff in this model, the province aims to enhance quality of care while reducing stress and burnout among workers. Homes interested in adopting the program can apply through their local Ontario Health regional office.

Our government is proud to invest in innovative dementia care and supports to improve the well-being of long-term care residents, their caregivers and families.

Learn more about our new Improving Dementia Care Program: https://t.co/tGtAX1LhyV pic.twitter.com/N5hds63wWB

— Natalia Kusendova-Bashta (@NatKusendova) September 25, 2025

Building on Ontario’s Four Pillars of Long-Term Care

The Improving Dementia Care Program is the latest step in Ontario’s broader plan to reform and protect the long-term care system. That plan is built on four pillars:

• Staffing and care: hiring more workers and supporting staff development.

• Quality and enforcement: strengthening oversight to ensure standards are met.

• Building modern, safe, and comfortable homes: expanding infrastructure to meet demand.

• Connecting seniors to services: improving access to health and community resources.

The Ministry emphasized that targeted investments like the IDCP are designed not only to improve residents’ daily lives but also to make Ontario’s long-term care system more resilient.

A Growing Need

With dementia diagnoses expected to rise significantly as Ontario’s population ages, demand for specialized care in long-term care homes is increasing. The IDCP addresses this challenge by modernizing care practices and ensuring facilities are equipped to meet the complex needs of residents.

This investment is part of the government’s broader strategy to make Ontario’s long-term care system safer, more compassionate, and more responsive to both residents and their families.