Providing safety, security and the comforts of home*
Community Advocate - July 2, 2004
By Sandie Michals
Community Reporter |
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Marlborough - Westridge Healthcare Center was founded in 1964 to provide quality, affordable and dignified health care local seniors. A team of dedicated, licensed nurses and certified nursing assistants work under the direction of the primary care physician to provide 24-hour -skilled nursing care.
Four distinctly different programs are available, including short-term or "rapid recovery" and complex medical care, specialized Alzheimer's/Dementia care, geriatric behavioral care, and long-term/comfort hospice care.
Westridge Healthcare's Special Care Unit was designed for the care of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias who have difficulty dealing with daily care or have a decline in judgment and safety. The Special Care Unit emphasizes positive life experiences through programs such as reminiscence therapy, music therapy, exercise programs and "failure free" activities. The unit, which was renovated last year, is a bright, cheerful and peaceful environment. It is a secured unit, featuring landscaped outdoor courtyard and gardens.
Westridge's Executive Director David Morrall has spent 22 years in the healthcare industry.
"We are certified by the Massachusetts Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association," Morrall said. "Our staff is specially trained to care for Alzheimer's patients. They are kind, patient and compassionate. Residents receive individual attention. We offer group or independent activities designed to keep them stimulated but without getting them agitated."
The Rapid Recovery Unit is equipped and staffed for complex medical and short-term recovery needs. Patients who are recovering from a stroke or heart attack or recovering from surgery may benefit from the rapid recovery care. A new gymnasium was recently added to the third-floor unit, and all care is overseen by the in-house physiatrist. The staff receives continuous education in the latest short-term rehab and complex medical care techniques. A " transitional room" furnished with microwave and refrigerator assists patients preparing to go home.
Westridge Healthcare accommodates 190 residents and features pleasant common areas where residents can visit with family members and visitors or participate in a variety of activities throughout the day. It provides a comfortable routine of socialization and recreation through numerous social events from bingo to backyard barbecues.
"We are capable of handling complex medical care, such as cardiac care or intravenous feedings," admissions coordinator Teddianne Meehan said. "We have nutritionists, dietitians and social workers, and all levels of rehabilitation therapy are available including physical, occupational and speech-language therapy. A nice feature is that if someone comes here with the beginning stages of something and it progresses, they can be moved to the long-term care unit. There is no need to move them to another facility. Spiritual care is also an important service provided here to offer support to our patients, their families and their loved one."
Westridge Healthcare Center is Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organization accredited and is certified as a Medicare provider and participates in most commercial insurance plans.
"We have a great staff here who has accomplished a lot," Morrall said. "We have a very low turnover and are people are caring, compassionate and patient. They are selected on that basis. Our goal here is to provide quality nursing, rehabilitation and specialty care in a caring and supportive environment."
Westridge Healthcare Center is located at 121 Northborough Road East, Marlborough. |
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| *Marlborough Hills Healthcare Center was formally named Westridge Healthcare Center. |
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