Advanced medical technology now makes it possible for life to be extended for longer than ever before. With that ability comes a responsibility to care for a growing population of elderly individuals whose medical conditions are often complex, and whose family and support networks may be diminished. Remaining independent, healthy and active is important, so concerns of health complications that would restrict mobility or a way of life take on heightened importance. Through the Division of Geriatrics programs, staff are able to help the patient and families to maximize strengths and improve overall quality of life.

Good Samaritan is dedicated to providing older patients with comprehensive, patient-centered care focused on their clinical symptoms, diagnosis and treatment as well as other important issues that may impact on their overall well-being. In-patient geriatric services are available on all medical-surgical units for patients 75 years and older. An interdisciplinary team, along with the patient and caregiver, work collaboratively to address the unique challenges encountered in this population. A Geriatric Nurse Practitioner provides a review of function, cognitive status and physical acuity, as well as other factors seen in acute illness and aging. Consultations performed by a Geriatrician, a physician that possesses expertise and board certification in the treatment of older people, may also be ordered by the primary health provider for complex problems in older patients.

ACE (Acute Care for the Elderly) Unit :

The opening of the ACE (Acute Care for the Elderly) Unit has expanded on this concept by providing individualized, patient-specific geriatric care. Staff members on the ACE Unit are trained in geriatric syndromes and are sensitized to the importance of maintaining dignity and function in older adults, especially during acute illness and hospitalization. Family Practice medical residents augment the comprehensive care provided on the ACE Unit during their rotations in geriatrics.

The ACE room (Activity Center for the Elderly) encourages patients and families to play an active role in social redevelopment with group discussions, pet therapy, games, music and movies. It also serves as a center of education for staff with special skills in the field of aging and to provide an information resource for patients and families. Housed in the ACE room is an area reserved for private family meetings and respite during hospitalization of a loved one.

Seniority Newsletter and Senior Appreciation Day:

The Division of Geriatrics bi-annual newsletter, Seniority: The Art of Aging, addresses timely topics with an interdisciplinary educational perspective. Hospital patients and senior citizens living in the community enjoy it and find it informative. Each Spring, Senior Appreciation Day, a cost-free, special day of health related fun, education and refreshment for older adults is held. Health screening, informative speakers, interactive learning and community resources are showcased and experienced.

My MED (Medical Emergency Data) program:

Too often senior citizens are brought by ambulance to Good Samaritan's Emergency Department unconscious or unable to answer routine medical questions that could make a difference in their treatment. The My MED program will provide full medical information to the physicians who will treat them as well as a listing of emergency contacts. My MED consists of a form to be completed by the participant, a plastic vial to store the information safely in the refrigerator and a sticker for the front door of the senior's home. Medical technicians, such as EMTs, will recognize the person is a member of the program and will know where to look for vital medical information.

Senior Assessment Program

The Senior Assessment program is designed to evaluate an older person from an interdisciplinary perspective and addresses quality of life issues that affect the elderly. The assessment encompasses a thorough examination of physical, economic, mental, functional, social, and environmental domains. The interdisciplinary team of professionals conducting the assessments includes a Geriatrician, a geriatric nurse practitioner, and social worker skilled in addressing the needs of older adults. This adept team offers insight and solutions in a detailed plan of care and provide referrals to appropriate community-based resources. The team summarizes their findings collectively and makes recommendations for the present and future management of participants while addressing caregiver concerns. To continue to meet the exceptional needs of our senior citizens, the following specialized screening services are now available through the Senior Assessment Program:

• Early memory loss detection
• Dementia
• Driving
• Depression/behavior or mood changes
• Falls and safety, functional reach, timed Get Up and Go
• Preparation for both in and out of state Patient Review Instrument (PRI) and Screens to facilitate a change in residence
• Evaluation for placement options for nursing home, assisted living, etc.
• Medication and Polypharmacy (multiple medications) evaluation

The interdisciplinary Geriatric Care programs are designed to advance the dignified care of seniors and their families. These programs seek to enable elders in the hospital to resume former or improved levels of independence in a pain-free, dignified manner. Our goal of assisting seniors and their families to adjust to the challenge of aging is done through assessment, evaluation, and ongoing access to community resources. Good Samaritan's commitment to provide the highest quality care throughout life's spectrum is as steadfast for those facing their golden years as it is for those whose lives have just begun.

For further information, call the Physician and Health Referral Line at (631) 376-4444.