Occupational What?
By: Chrissy Queen, OT
When a patient first arrives at a skilled nursing facility (SNF), they are seen by both a Physical Therapist (PT) and Occupational Therapist (OT). Everyone knows what PT is so the question becomes what exactly is OT? Occupational Therapy focuses on maximizing a patient’s level of independence with daily tasks (ADLs) using compensatory techniques, education on body mechanics and instruction on use of adaptive equipment or strategies as needed to complete a functional task. The goal of OT in a rehab setting is to return the patient to their prior level of independence so they can safely return home.
During their stay at a Skilled Nursing Facility, a patient will undergo many assessments of their ability to complete their bathing, dressing and toileting routines. The therapist will provide explanation and demonstration on use of adaptive equipment and techniques within the parameters of their specific diagnosis/rehab needs. The therapist will complete education on safe strategies for managing home tasks such as light meal preparation and laundry tasks.
Occupational therapists also work to improve strength and range of motion in the upper extremities. This can be an important component to recovery for patients who may need to rely on trunk and upper extremity support when they have an affected lower extremity. They also provide education on walker safety during ADL tasks during home management tasks.
An Occupational Therapist also works to determine the best seating for a patient when in a SNF for rehab. Assessment of width of wheelchairs, types of armrests and leg rests needed and providing specialized cushions when appropriate are all areas an OT will address.
Family education is an important component of Occupational Therapy as well. An OT will provide direct hands on family and staff training on a patient’s ability to complete functional skills and on the level of assistance they will require if returning home.
Finally, prior to a patient returning home to their previous living arrangements, an Occupational Therapist can perform a home safety evaluation. This involves taking the patient to their home and assessing needs for modifications so the patient may safely return home. Recommendations will be made for any equipment needed within the home that will promote independence, safety and decreased risk of falls. Modifications to a patient’s home may include removal of throw rugs to reduce fall risk, installation of grab bars for security and moving of household furniture to prevent tripping hazards.
There are many ways an Occupational Therapist can influence and affect a patient’s rehab stay in a Skilled Nursing Facility. The goal is to return the patient to their prior level of function with daily tasks, prevent falls and optimize patient rate of success when returned home. After all Physical Therapy may get you up and walking but without skills learned in Occupational Therapy, you would be walking around with no clothes on.
By: Lisa Zook, Dietitian
Looking to improve your diet this Spring? Eating a varied diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, is one of the keys to good health. However, to stay healthy, it’s equally important to makes sure the produce you consume is safe to eat. One way to do that is to make sure any fruits or vegetables you use have been washed well before you peel, cut, eat, or cook with them. Pesticides can also be reduced by washing fruits and vegetables properly.
How Fruits and Vegetables Become Contaminated
Although most people understand that meat products such as chicken need to be properly handled to prevent food-borne illnesses, some do not realize that fruits and vegetables may also cause illness if not handled and stored properly. In fact, in recent years, contaminated fruits and vegetables have been the culprit in several large outbreaks of food-borne illness. That is because they are eaten in the raw state at most times. Some of the ways fruits and vegetables can become contaminated include:
- Harmful substances present in the soil or water during growing
- Poor hygiene among workers during harvest, packing, and transporting
- Pesticide use during growing to prevent plant disease and pest infestation
The following fruits and vegetables have been found to have larger amounts of pesticides:
- Apples, strawberries, grapes, celery, peaches, spinach, bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and potatoes. They have levels within the USDA limits but should be washed carefully before eating to make them safer to eat.
How to Wash Fruits and Vegetables
- Start by choosing produce that’s free of bruises, mold, or other signs of damage. If you are purchasing precut items, make sure they have been refrigerated or displayed on ice at the supermarket.
- Once home, store perishable fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator (at 40 degrees F or below) until you’re ready to use them. Always store precut fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator, too.
- Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and warm water before and after handling fresh produce.
- Use a sharp paring knife to cut away any damaged or bruised areas of the fruit or vegetable.
- Wash the produce before you peel it. That way, contaminants will not be transferred from your knife to the fruit or vegetable.
- Hold the fruit or vegetable under cool running tap water, gently rubbing it as you rinse it.
- For firm produce, such as melons and winter squash, use a clean vegetable brush to scrub the surface as you rinse it. Do not brush too hard.
- Produce with bumpy, uneven surfaces, such as cauliflower and broccoli, should be soaked for 1 to 2 minutes in cold water to remove contaminants, soil and bugs from the nooks and crannies.
- Use a clean cloth or paper towel to dry the produce before using it.
How to Wash Salad Greens
Salad greens require special attention. First, discard the wilted outer leaves; then prep and wash greens as directed for each type.
- For leafy lettuces, such as green or red-tip leaf, butter head, and romaine as well as endive, remove and discard the root end. Separate leaves and hold them under cold running water to remove any dirt.
- For smaller greens, such as spinach and arugula, swirl them in a bowl or a clean sink filled with cold water about 30 seconds. Remove the leaves and shake gently to let dirt and other debris fall into the water. Repeat the process if necessary. Drain in a colander.
- For iceberg lettuce, remove the core by hitting the stem end on the countertop; twist and lift out the core. Hold the head, core side up under cold running water, pulling leaves apart slightly. Invert the head and drain thoroughly. Repeat if necessary.
- For mesclun (a mixture of young, small salad greens often available in bulk at farmers markets), rinse in a colander or the basket of a salad spinner.
Other Tips for Washing Fruits and Vegetables
- Do not use soap or detergents when washing produce.
- You need not seek out a special produce wash to clean fruits and vegetables. Cool, clean, running tap water is fine. Studies have shown that tap water is effective as vegetable sprays and vinegar or lemon water.
- Wash all produce before using, even if you are going to peel it including bananas. Any dirt and bacteria on the outside of unwashed produce can be transferred from the knife into the fruit or vegetable.
Tip: Even organic fruits and vegetables, as well as produce from your own garden or local farmer’s markets, should be washed well.
By: Danny Parsons, Sprenger Hospice Care
Out with the old in with the new… Wouldn’t it be so nice if it was that easy? Our bodies and minds have endured a great deal over the years. Today I would encourage you to rest assure that all is not lost. Newness is in our grasps if we choose to embrace it.
How can we experience a new us? No, I am not talking about surgery or some fad diet, but a renewing of our minds is what I have found to be the key. Ask yourself today; what it is that has been consuming most of your thoughts? It is normal to be concerned about something, but sometimes we can let it consume us. So many of us stress and worry about things we have little or no control over.
A renewing of our minds is not us simply pretending something isn’t taking place or that our current circumstances aren’t real. A renewing of the mind is getting our focus back to where it needs to be.
This New Year, let’s make it a point to focus more on the many things we can control and work on ways to make those changes happen.
We need to focus on the present and everything we still have available to us. So often we ponder on all the negatives in life, which could bring anyone down. If we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit that there is plenty positives in our lives and many things to be grateful for.
Renewing one’s mind is thinking that even though things might not be perfect, we still give our very best. We understand mistakes will be made, but we chose to learn from them and continue on life’s journey. Developing an attitude of gratitude will go a long way in this New Year.
I am reminded of the story of the little train that thought he could. It wasn’t something he did all at once. Inch by inch, little by little, he made his way up that steep hill. So will we if we don’t give up. That mountain that stands before us might seem impossible today but no one is saying you have to reach the top overnight. The excitement is found in the journey of the climb. Enjoy each new experience that comes your way; embrace the challenges that arise from time to time. Know that you can do it and reach down deep and find that inner strength that lies within; where our mind goes the body will follow.
We’re looking for a HOLIDAY STAR!
Give back in the spirit of the season and WIN!
Sprenger Healthcare is holding a company-wide competition between facilities and individuals! We want to see you get into the spirit of the holiday and new year by giving back to your community! The facility and individual with the most memorable holiday deed will be rewarded! Work together and on your own.
Contest will run Dec. 9th thru Jan. 31st
Chosen facility wins a catered lunch/dinner for all staff! Individual winner gets a $100 gift card AND $100 donated to a charity of choice!
Winners will also be featured on the Sprenger website and a press release will go out to local newspapers!
What can you do?
- Fundraise for a cause
- Volunteer your time
- “Adopt” a family or child in need
- Participate in a fundraising event
- Collect canned foods, coats, toys or other items
- AND MORE!
Each year, many of us set New Year’s resolutions to achieve new opportunities and goals. For some of us, it’s to start going to the gym, eating healthy, or getting a promotion. One great resolution to consider, which can be beneficial to you and your community, is volunteering.
Volunteering is a wonderful and fulfilling activity. Whether it is cooking meals at a local shelter, caring for dogs and cats at an animal shelter, or doing something as simple as shoveling a neighbor’s driveway. Volunteering can do so much good for you and the community.
Sprenger Healthcare has many opportunities for one to volunteer across multiple facilities. Some great examples of volunteering are reading books and newspapers to residents, assisting in fundraising, and even just keeping residents company.
Volunteering is not only beneficial for the people you’re caring for, but it’s also for the volunteers too. One of the best reasons to volunteer is to learn from our experienced residents. Our residents have a wide variety of knowledge and insightfulness that they can share with you.
You can meet peers and make new friends when you volunteer. When you volunteer at Sprenger Health Care Systems and help care for residents, you work with like-minded people. When you work together it’s easy to bond with fellow volunteers, employees, and members of the community to create new relationships and connections within the healthcare industry.
Volunteering is a selfless way to feel good about yourself, step back from your hectic life, and help enrich the lives of others. It’s a wonderful feeling to bring a smile or a bit of laughter to someone you just met.
If you are interested in volunteering at any of our Sprenger Health Care communities, please contact us through the website or by calling the facility you’re interested in and ask for the Life Enrichment Director. To volunteer for Sprenger Hospice Care, please contact Toni Rotz, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, at trotz@sprengerhealthcare.com.
No matter your New Year’s resolutions, we hope you have a happy 2017!
By: Renea Dutton, PT
The Office of Disease Prevention & Health Promotion develops initiatives and goals every decade to promote consumer wellness. The 2020 initiative includes several targets, including being preventative services to help seek and identify illness at earlier stages or further prevent the illness from occurring.
Unfortunately, as illnesses progress so does the risk of co-morbid conditions. With increased research, our understanding of the clear link between the primary disorder and potential secondary disorders can lead to a better diagnosis and treatment of subsequent conditions.
With advancing research, there is a growing awareness of a link between Type 2 diabetes and hearing loss, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). The article “Hearing Loss & Diabetes” by Marilyn Enock (www.asha.org) indicates that 2% of adults aged 45 to 54 have a hearing loss disability, which steadily increases with age to nearly 25% of adults aged 65 to 74, and to half of those aged 75 years or older. Individuals with diabetes were found to be twice as likely to develop hearing loss, which is thought to be related to a chemical change caused by elevated blood sugar levels. The chemical change affects the nervous system’s ability to send typical sound signals to the brain, resulting in affected hearing.
Presbycusis is the type of hearing loss most commonly diagnosed in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. This type of hearing loss is typically slow to progress and predominantly affects the individual’s ability to hear higher pitched sounds including a phone ringing or the voice of a female conversation partner. Consequently, hearing loss can be a risk factor for social isolation and loneliness leading to a feeling of “missing out” on social gatherings or conversations.
Fortunately, both risk of diabetes and hearing loss can be screened or tested relatively quickly. Individuals with diabetes should consider consulting their physician to determine if a routine hearing screening or testing would be an appropriate healthy initiative in order to prevent hearing loss.
by Tyler Sponaugle, DPT
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, better known as BPPV, or simply “Vertigo” amongst patient populations, is the most common disorder of the human vestibular system. It is frequently described as an intense spinning sensation brought on by changes in head position1. As the word “benign” suggests, the condition in itself is not life threatening, but depending on the intensity of the spinning sensation, the condition can put a person at an extremely high risk for falls, which can lead to significant injury and hospitalization. Patients often describe the condition as “debilitating” or “terrifying” due to the rapid onset and intensity of symptoms that are brought on by seemingly simple motions such as rolling in bed, standing up/sitting down, or even looking up1. In most cases patients being affected are afraid to move due to fear of onset of symptoms. This article will provide information into the structure of the vestibular system and the specific mechanical problems that bring about an episode of BPPV. It will also describe known treatments for the condition and the steps someone afflicted with BPPV can take to identify key symptoms and seek necessary treatment.
The vestibular system is a sensory system responsible for providing information regarding the orientation of the body in space and is a primary contributor to coordinating movements necessary to maintain a sense of balance2. The entire vestibular system shares the space of the inner ear with the auditory system, and though it can sit comfortably on top a pencil eraser, the effect the vestibular system has on the way the human body moves and interacts with the surrounding environment is quite profound. There many unique structures and mechanisms at work in the vestibular system, which provide data to the brain regarding the body’s position in space. For the sake of brevity, this article will focus only on those structures that are directly involved in an episode of BPPV.
The primary structures of the vestibular system involved in an episode of BPPV include the utricle and the semicircular canals2. The utricle is a chamber in the inner ear lined with very sensitive hair cells. On top of these hair cells sit the proverbial “crystals” or “rocks” in your head. These rocks are made up of calcium carbonate and are essentially microscopic pieces of limestone referred to as Otoconia. The otoconia sit all together on top of the hair cells of the utricle, held together by a gel like substance. As the head accelerates or changes position, the otoconia move on top of the hair cells and create a shearing force on the hair cells, which in turn send a message to the brain alerting it of a change in position or acceleration3.
The semicircular canals are a set of 3 fluid filled semicircular tubes that are responsible for perceiving rotation or angular acceleration of the head2. When the head is turned, it will cause the fluid to accelerate and bend a sensory receptor mass called the cupula which in turn sends a signal to the brain regarding the direction and intensity of the acceleration. They are oriented so that in a specific plane of motion will stimulate only one canal (i.e. spinning in a chair will stimulate the horizontal canal, a front flip or backflip will stimulate the anterior canal, and a cartwheel will stimulate the posterior canal.)
In a normal functioning vestibular system, the utricle and semicircular canals operate primarily independent of one another. They are, however, located in very close proximity to one another, separated by only a thin membrane. In a case of BPPV, this thin membrane breaks down, along with the gel that holds the otoconia in a mass. With the right positioning and movements, the loose otoconia can leak out of the utricle and into the semicircular canals. The fluid in the semicircular canals has the consistency of honey or nectar and normally does not react to gravity3. When the loose otoconia, which are affected by gravity, leak into the canal, this causes a relative disruption and movement of fluid (think of dropping rocks into a well) that causes the cupula to send a false message to the brain that the head is moving. Since BPPV usually only affects one ear at a time, the false signal will not match the normalized signal of the opposite ear, or the visual input from the eyes. The discrepancy in signals causes brain to perceive a spinning sensation3. The brain then makes the eyes move in an attempt to keep them focused on the environment. These involuntary eye movements (or nystagmus) are what cause those individuals afflicted by BPPV to experience the hallmark “room spinning around me” sensation.
As stated previously, BPPV is the most common disorder of the vestibular system with occurrences in up to 2.4% of the population. It accounts for up to 20% of all cases in specialized dizziness clinics. It seems to be most prevalent in 50-70 year olds, but has been known to affect adults of all ages. Very rarely will BPPV affect children3. In the majority of cases, there are no symptoms or precipitating factors leading up to onset1. There have been increased associations of the disorder with certain triggering factors in recent research, including head trauma, history of migraines or inner ear infections, diabetes, osteoporosis, and prolonged bed rest2.
Treatment for BPPV
Any type of dizziness should be considered a serious medical symptom and should be evaluated by a physician. With that being said, there are a number of signs and symptoms that are unique to the dizziness experienced with BPPV. The primary symptom of BPPV is an intense feeling of the environment spinning around the individual that lasts for less than 1 minute. After the actual spinning subsides, the individual may experience a lingering feeling of nausea or imbalance up to several minutes. The symptoms are consistently brought on by quick changes in head position such as looking up, rolling over in bed, getting in/out of bed, bending over, or looking over one’s shoulder4. BPPV is not accompanied by hearing loss despite the proximity of the vestibular systems to the auditory system. There should not be any feeling of numbness or tingling, weakness, pain, or decreased coordination3. It is important to note that BPPV is a transient disorder and often resolves on its own after several days. However, treatment provided by an appropriate healthcare professional is highly effective and fast acting.
It is important for a person experiencing a possible case of BPPV to make an appointment with their primary care physician (PCP), to receive a diagnosis of vertigo. The PCP may do some preliminary testing with head movements to assess for nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), but will likely refer the patient to a physical therapist (PT) with specialized training in treatment of vestibular disorders.
Upon seeking treatment for BPPV following referral from a PCP, a new patient will likely fill out a questionnaire or outcome measure to allow the PT to better understand what activities or movements bring on episodes of dizziness. The pt. will then undergo a series of tests in sitting focused on eye movements to rule out any red flags such as stroke or other central vestibular dysfunctions. Vital signs will also be collected to ensure the dizziness episodes are not caused by changes in blood pressure.
Since the cause of BPPV is mechanical in nature, so is the treatment. The physical therapist will guide the patient through a variety of very specific positioning maneuvers (performed with patient laying on a mat table or plinth) in an attempt to reproduce a spinning sensation and to observe the subsequent nystagmus that presents with it. The clinic will likely have a specialized pair of goggles that will be placed on the patient and will assist the therapist in observing eye movements. Based upon the maneuver that stimulated dizziness and the direction of the nystagmus observed, the therapist will be able to pinpoint which canal the otoconia have drifted into.
Once the appropriate canal has been identified, the therapist will guide the patient through a series of maneuvers directed at guiding the otoconia back into the utricle by simply utilizing appropriate positioning and the effects of gravity. At each position, the patient may experience symptoms such as nausea or dizziness, once the symptoms subside, the therapist will wait 30 seconds before moving on to the next position3. This indicates that the otoconia have collected/settled in a specific portion of the affected canal and can be maneuvered with minimal residual debris. At the end of the treatment maneuver, the otoconia should be out of the canal and the patient will feel symptom free. A follow up appointment may be scheduled if symptoms persist or to ensure there is no immediate recurrence. When performed correctly, positioning maneuvers are 90% effective in resolving cases of BPPV within 2 visits or treatment sessions.
Due to the orientation of the canals to the utricle, 85% of BPPV cases involve the posterior semicircular canal primarily diagnosed via Dix-Hallpike maneuver4. This is evidenced by the therapist observing a nystagmus that beats upward and has a rotational component towards the affected side. Primary treatment is via the Epley maneuver
Lateral canal involvement is noted in 5-12% of BPPV cases1. It is known for producing a more intense spinning sensation and is often accompanied by nausea. It is primarily triggered by rolling over in bed. Diagnosed with sit to supine and rolling L and R tests4. Nystagmus will be purely horizontal and more intense toward the affected ear. Treatment in uncomplicated cases will be via a 270 or 360 degree barbecue roll.
Though there are several other possible causes of BPPV including anterior canal involvement and cupulolithiasis, occurrences are rare and explanation is beyond the scope of the article.
In conclusion, BPPV is a fairly common vestibular disorder that presents with intense, room spinning dizziness. Though it is benign in nature, in can lead to increased fall risk and is very debilitating at onset. BPPV is caused by a rather unique mechanical failure of the inner ear and will likely require a physician visit. Treatment of BPPV is highly effective and fast acting when performed by an appropriate healthcare professional.
Works Cited
1. Parnes, Lorne S., Sumit K. Agrawal, and Jason Atlas. “Diagnosis and management of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).” Canadian Medical Association Journal 169.7 (2003): 681-693.
2.Goodman, Catherine C., and Kenda S. Fuller. Pathology: implications for the physical therapist. Elsevier Health Sciences, 2014.
3.http://vestibular.org/understanding-vestibular-disorders/types-vestibular-disorders/benign-paroxysmal-positional-vertigo Accessed 4/14/16.
4.Hornibrook, Jeremy. “Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): history, pathophysiology, office treatment and future directions.” International journal of otolaryngology 2011 (2011).
By: Steve Mankins, PT
Imagine waking up in an unfamiliar room to unfamiliar faces, struggling to answer simple questions and complete routine tasks; all while you are unable to accurately communicate what you are experiencing. A stay in a skilled nursing facility can be a frightening time for a patient with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and interacting without consideration for his or her disease can make that experience worse. Interactions with these patients can lead to frustration on both sides or a positive experience that leaves the patient feeling valued.
The goal of working with patients with dementia is to understand their abilities and establish a plan to maximize those abilities. In general, we as therapists typically focus on deficits in patients and how we can improve those deficits. Unfortunately in patients with dementia, we need to focus on the present abilities and how those abilities can be improved on to maximize the patients’ independence. Many patients are unable to provide the therapist with accurate assessments of their abilities, which can lead to disconnect between patients’ and therapists’ goals.
An excellent way to gain a better understanding of these abilities is an in-depth discussion with family members and/or close friends. This conversation can provide information about the patient’s mobility level and learning style, as well as likes/dislikes, hobbies and activities of enjoyment that allow the therapist to develop a global picture of the patient. This global view gives the therapist the opportunity to intertwine therapy objectives with activities or topics that are of importance to the patient. Therapy sessions can be a difficult time for patients with dementia because they may have difficulty communicating their needs with the therapist as well as completing tasks that are challenging and frustrating that may have been completed before with ease. Incorporating hobbies or discussing topics of interest can add enjoyment to an otherwise stressful situation and allow the patient to feel that the therapist working with them has a genuine interest in them as a person.
The last key to every interaction with a patient with dementia is patience. It is important to remember that the patient is experiencing changes in their living environment that they may or may not understand, meeting a large number of new people, and are being instructed to do and not do specific tasks; all of which can be very confusing and frustrating. Allowing additional time for the patient to process information and explaining tasks in a variety of ways gives the patient the best chance at understanding; drastically changing your interaction and their experience.
Interacting with patients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can pose unique challenges and can leave both parties feeling frustrated and confused. Focusing on the patient’s abilities, getting the family involved, and incorporating hobbies and topics of interest can lead to everyone receiving the maximum benefit from the experience. Above all, be patient because your caring and understanding nature reminds them how valuable they are.
Exercise is a key component when it comes to healthy aging. One form of exercise that has become more popular among older adults is yoga. Yoga is a low-impact exercise that can benefit both your physical and mental health.
Here are some of the health benefits it may offer you:
Low impact: As mentioned, yoga is a low-impact exercise. This is beneficial to older adults, as it offers range of motion without putting too much strain on your body. Finding a physical exercise can be difficult for older adults with limitations. Yoga can be a great solution people with joint pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, asthma and more!
Improve balance: Yoga is a great activity for improving strength and balance. This type of exercise is meant to create a sense of body awareness, which can help prevent falls. Since falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, this can be a huge benefit.
Sharpen your mind: This exercise routine puts a strong focus on concentration by encouraging you to clear your mind and calm your senses. By removing all of the outside noise from your head, you can learn to focus and help your mind perform better.
Keep off excess weight: It is always important to maintain a healthy weight no matter what age you are. This is done with proper diet and physical exercise. Incorporating yoga into your daily routine is a great way to shed and keep off excess weight, which can help improve your overall heath.
Relieve anxiety and depression: Yoga has been known to also help with anxiety and depression. Yoga can also help lower blood pressure and heart rate, which can help with symptoms that come from anxiety. It is also a way of relaxing, exercising, meditation and socialization, which can help fight depression.
As you can see, yoga offers benefits through mind and body for people of all ages. Before you start a new exercise routine, it is important to consult your doctor. If you are an older adult, you may want to look for beginners classes. Some studios even offer classes tailored to older adults. Remember to never push yourself further than your body can handle.
For more information, please contact:
Jaime Marino-Freetage
Therapy Regional Director
Phone: (440) 935-5487
Email: jmarino-freetage@sprengerhealthcare.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sprenger Healthcare is raising the standard for memory care by providing many of its Smithville Western Care Center staff with the tools necessary to complete Dementia Care Specialist Certification.
The Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI)’s Dementia Care Specialist Certification is a formal recognition of an individual’s commitment and leadership as a professional caring for patients with Alzheimer’s disease or other related dementias. Dementia Care Capable Training helps caregivers work together more cohesively and consistently to deliver a higher standard of dementia care.
At Smithville Western Care Center, training in dementia care allows the memory care team to demonstrate an understanding of dementia and its impact on cognitive function. Trained staff can identify key care approaches for each stage of the disease in order to promote the highest possible level of function in activities of daily living (ADL), mobility, and leisure activity. The team also learned strategies to enhance communication, minimize negative behaviors and support families.
Perhaps the most important skill gained through the certification is the ability to identify and report predictors of cognitive decline or transition, further assisting Sprenger clinicians in the development of care plans that promote successful outcomes.
According to CPI, when this compassionate, results-oriented approach is embraced and implemented, staff attitudes shift, confidence soars, and quality of life improves for dementia clients and their families. This is why staff members involved in the care of dementia patients at Sprenger communities will be given the opportunity to become a Dementia Care Specialist, including therapists, nurses, nursing assistants, life enrichment staff and housekeepers.
Dementia Care training is not only a benefit to the staff at Smithville Western Care Center, but also to patients receiving memory care at each Sprenger community. Trained memory care staff strive to lessen the symptoms of dementia by helping patients with self-care and teaching them to manage activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing and toileting. They provide support while encouraging patients to achieve the highest possible level of independence.
In addition to the benefits of having on-staff Dementia Care Specialists, Sprenger Healthcare provides Excellence in Memory Care, a specialized team approach to quality patient-centered care. Having a team of Dementia Care Specialists raises the bar for Sprenger Health Care’s already high standard of dementia care at its communities.
“It is our goal at Sprenger Health Care to provide our patients with the highest quality of care. Having Dementia Care Specialists on our team only furthers our commitment to our Excellence in Memory Care,” said Jaime Marino-Freetage, Executive Therapy Director.
In addition to enhancing a commitment to Excellence in Memory Care, Sprenger Health Care offers excellence in Neurological Care, Orthopedics, Osteoporosis, Amputee Care and Respiratory Care, and Cardiac Care.
About Sprenger Healthcare
Sprenger Healthcare has been family owned and operated since 1959. With 10 facilities throughout Northeast Ohio and Indiana, Sprenger offers the full continuum of aging services including: Short Term Rehabilitation, Skilled Nursing, Memory Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living, Hospice, and Home Health. Our innovative care, excellent customer service, and compassionate, dedicated employees have made Sprenger Healthcare a leader in providing exceptional health care. Sprenger communities have a history of excellent Resident and Family Satisfaction Surveys, 5 Star Ratings, Deficiency Free Surveys, and US News & World Report Rankings. For more information on the programs we offer and to hear more about the Sprenger difference, please visit our website, www.SprengerHealthCare.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
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