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New advanced Alzheimer's unit in works |
| BL » News » New advanced Alzheimer's unit in works |
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July 30, 2004 |
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This article by Rachel E. Sheeley was reprinted with permission from the July 30, 2004, edition of the Richmond (Ind.) Palladium-Item.
In addition to the excitement over a deficiency-free state survey rating, staff at Golden Rule Nursing and Rehab Center are anticipating a new advanced Alzheimer's care unit.
Golden Rule Alzheimer's care unit director Rosella Bennett said the center has been planning the new unit for three years. Golden Rule, which is owned by Beverly Healthcare, is among the organization's first nursing homes to add an advanced care unit.
Work started July 19 to convert the north wing into a 25-bed advanced care area. It is west of the current 28-bed Alzheimer's unit.
"We have our regular Alzheimer's unit for higher-functioning dementia and Alzheimer's. As they regress, we can take them to the advanced care unit. There will be a level of programming based on their needs," said Vickie Cortner, customer relations representative for Beverly Healthcare.
Bennett said the new unit will provide more nursing care in an environment that is similar to the current unit's homelike atmosphere. "We want to make a safe environment where they can still express themselves," Bennett said. "What we anticipate is improvement in their quality of life."
The unit will include a family-style kitchen and dining room as well as a new walled courtyard.
The courtyard will change the landscape outside the center, blocking off the drive and parking lot between U.S. 27 South and Straightline Pike. Entry to the unit will either be from the U.S. 27 parking lot or through the facility from its main entrance on Straightline Pike.
The courtyard will provide residents with an outdoor experience similar to the one they now have in the unit, where a secure garden is planted with favorite flowers and vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers, Bennett said.
"We try to make it a peaceful and soothing environment," she said.
The new unit is expected to be complete this fall.
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