Approximately 85 percent of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, and 60 percent have at least two chronic conditions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For many older people, coping with multiple chronic conditions is a real challenge. Learning to manage a variety of treatments while maintaining quality of life can be problematic.
People with chronic conditions may have different needs, but they also share common challenges with other older adults, such as paying for care or navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.
Clinicians can play an important role in educating patients and families about chronic health conditions and can connect them with appropriate community resources and services. One resource that many people and care coordinators don’t often think about is Enhanced Care living.
As part of our Continuum of Independence at Riley Crossing and Ebenezer/Fairview, we are proud to offer state-of-the-art Enhanced Care suites for our residents recovering from illness, injury, surgery and that have chronic care health needs.
We work with our residents and their families to develop personalized care plans aimed at aiding recovery safely and successfully. During the recovery process, services are provided by a trained and compassionate personal care staff that is on-site 24 hours a day.
Residents in our care suites can take advantage of a variety of rehabilitative therapies—including occupational therapy, speech therapy and physical therapy—as needed. State-of-the-art support services are available for those who have more specific care requirements. Whether the stay is long-term or short-term, our Enhanced Care Suites will provide the care, comfort and encouragement our seniors need to heal
Tips for caregivers or physicians of those seniors living with chronic care:
- Start by appreciating that people living with chronic disease are often living with loss—the loss of physical function, independence, or general well-being.
- Empathize with patients who feel angry, sad, lost, or bewildered. Ask, “Is it hard for you to live with these problems?”
- From there you can refer patients/loved ones to community resources that may meet their needs or, when available, recommend a disease management program or case managers in the community.
To learn more or if you need support in navigating care options, please call us at 952-934-7777 or fill out our contact us form.