Dementia respite care facility opens in Vaughan

F.K. Liang is a client of CHATS, a Community & Home Assistance to Seniors resource for dementia respite care. Tue., May 5, 2026. PHOTO: COURTESY OF CHATS

A new dementia respite care centre has opened in Vaughan.

Called CHATS for Community & Home Assistance to Seniors, it’s located at the Canadian Italian Business Professional Association (CIBPA) Place.

CIBPA is a national non-profit that supports Italian Canadian professionals and entrepreneurs.

“We are proud to introduce CIBPA Place as a beacon of hope, compassion, and support for families navigating dementia,” said CHATS CEO Christina Bisanz. “This project reflects our commitment to ensuring older adults across York Region are treated with dignity and respect.”

This is York Region’s first not-for-profit home dedicated to short-stay, overnight residential respite for people living with dementia.

“I can’t say enough about the CHATS overnight respite program,” said caregiver John De Fusco.

“I’m extremely satisfied with the experience. My mom usually doesn’t remember a lot, but since coming home from her stay, she has told me several times how wonderful the staff were with her—and she’s looking forward to going back. My wife and I are very thankful and very fortunate to have this level of care available.”

Dementia is one of the fastest-growing health challenges in York Region.

An estimated 17,000 people are living with dementia today; by 2031, that number is projected to exceed 31,500- an increase of 163%- highlighting the need for specialized supports for individuals and the caregivers who support them.

The centre provides 24/7 support from trained and compassionate Personal Support Workers (PSWs) in a safe, comfortable environment. With space for five guests at a time, CIBPA Place delivers personalized, short-term overnight residential respite designed around each guest’s needs.

Key features of CIBPA Place:

• $100 per overnight stay, including meals, recreational activities, and round-the-clock care
• Stays range from 2 to 14 consecutive nights
• Up to five weekend stays per year per guest
• A two-night trial stay is required to confirm suitability and comfort
• Visits are available by appointment