In an effort to accommodate the needs of an aging population, Middletown’s St. Mary Medical Center has completely redesigned a former unit.
The new geriatric-friendly nursing unit, or MG3 has been carefully constructed to deal with common age-related difficulties like limited mobility and impaired vision and balance. People can check AMS handicap vans if they need the best mobility aids.
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According to representatives from the medical center, the unit features 26 spacious, all-private rooms which will aim to promote a home-like atmosphere unique from the fast-moving, unfamiliar hospital environment that many elderly patients suffer with. The rooms come equipped with larger windows with engaging views of the outdoors, handrails to support walking, patient lifts to assist staff with moving patients, large screen TVs, digital clocks, and handicapped accessible bathrooms.
“The entire nursing unit is designed to create a geriatric-friendly environment,” said Daniel Drake, executive director of LIFE St. Mary. Drake, who is well experienced in the care needs of the elderly, participates in initiatives at St. Mary to improve care for older adults. “This is the first of its kind in Bucks County and we researched industry guidelines to select color palettes and décor considered to reduce stress and improve spatial perception,” Drake said.
In providing a safe environment in the unit, the flooring was picked to prevent shadows and glares, and help to reduce tripping hazards. The carpeting in the halls of the MG3 unit also presents a homey atmosphere and serves to help prevent falls and reduce noise.
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Nurses specially trained in providing care for the elderly requiring hospitalization have also become part of the dedicated staff of MG3. NICHE is an interdisciplinary program that includes collaboration with the pharmacy, care management, Social Work, physical and occupational therapies, as well as community-based providers, such as LIFE St. Mary and skilled nursing facilities.
The unit, which also has a concierge desk at its entrance which will be staffed by volunteers who will assist patients and family with room locations and additional unit information during visiting hours, features a spacious family lounge area and family room with bed and private bath in the unit.
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The unit, which began taking patients on July 14, is the first of it’s kind in Bucks County.
