A new $20 million rest home will give seniors the chance to experience "dignity and care", according to Health Minister Nelson Bascome.

The Sylvia Richardson Care Facility is the replacement for the St. George's Parish Rest Home, which closed five years ago due to health and safety concerns.

Mr. Bascome said the centre, which boasts a library, beauty salon and chapel, underlines the Government's commitment to take residential care to a better level.

He said it represents a benchmark for the Island and will be the future model for residential care, nursing homes and other care facilities.

Speaking at an opening ceremony on Sunday, Mr. Bascome said: "This is the first step in the Government's commitment to restructure and upgrade our senior residential care and nursing homes to ensure the provision of safe, comfortable and healthy living environments.

"This new facility will provide needed long-term care, in the east parishes in particular, and help to address a pressing need for more intermediate and skilled nursing care across the Island.

"The intent of this facility is to provide care and services from assisted living to skilled nursing in an integrated fashion.

"It embraces the concept of ageing, making it possible for residents to experience dignity, care and individualism at all levels of physical and cognitive ability without having to relocate."

Premier Ewart Brown and former Premier Dame Jennifer Smith were among the guests as the new home was unveiled.

It was built after the Ministry of Health commissioned a report over long-term care facility needs in Bermuda, said Mr. Bascome.

This involved consultation with the community, particularly residents of the East End. "The mission of the facility is to deliver effective resident centred care in a home-like environment through the involvement of residents, caregivers and the community," he added.

"We recognise that we must provide a continuum of services that supports seniors and assists them in maintaining their independence and involvement in their communities.

"We challenge you to journey with us in providing excellent resident-directed care and services that will unite us in making residential care and nursing homes in Bermuda the 'place to live'."

Mr. Bascome said the facility had been named after Sylvia Richardson, a nurse who made a "significant contribution" to the St. George community and to the people of Bermuda.

"We especially acknowledge that contribution," he said, "her dedication to her profession and her selfless service to the people of Bermuda."