Health Essentials - Winter 2012 - Marymount - (Page 6)

Care and comfort As we age, it can become harder to maintain a high quality of life and do the things we’ve always done on our own. For those older adults experiencing acute psychiatric problems, the 27-bed Older Adult Behavioral Health Unit at Marymount Hospital offers a secure and nurturing environment. According to Carol Johlin, BA, BSN, MEd, RN-BC, director of Inpatient Behavioral Medicine at Marymount, the program offers several advantages. First, an intake coordinator handles all of the arrangements for admission. “Once the physician makes the referral, our staff takes it form there,” Johlin says. “In addition, the unit has been specifically designed for the needs of the older adult. Families appreciate that the program fosters well-being, group interaction and independence. We have been caring for older adults for years and understand that a hospitalization of a loved one can be stressful for both the patient and their caregiver and work to relieve anxiety for all involved.” n Older people with mental concerns have a place for quality care and compassion Changes in mental status Mood disorders and other mental illnesses Severe depression with thought to harm themselves or others n n A Team Approach to Caring The Older Adult Behavioral Health Unit team includes a psychiatrist, social worker, recreational therapist, occupational therapist, physical therapist and pharmacist as well as registered nurses and health technicians—all dedicated to the physical and mental health concerns of older adults. The healthcare team works with the family to identify and assess concerns and develop a plan of care that promotes expected outcomes. The team evaluates progress and recommends interventions for future care and longer-term planning; they also provide assistance arranging follow-up care as appropriate. “Marymount Hospital has a rich history of providing highquality comprehensive psychiatric services in the area,” says Donald Malone, MD, department chair of the Center for Neurological Restoration. “We’re pleased to be expanding our services while coordinating with all Cleveland Clinic Behavioral Health programs in Northeast Ohio.” Jung El-Mallawany, MD, the unit’s medical director, adds, “We are proud to be expanding our adult and older adult psychiatric program at Marymount Hospital, allowing us to provide services to more patients in our community.” Donald Malone, MD Jung El-Mallawany, MD Who We Treat Patients on the Older Adult Behavioral Health Unit have been diagnosed with: n Dementia and symptoms of anxiety, agitation, delusions, hallucinations, paranoia (ask) GET THE RIGHT CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONE If your family member is experiencing these issues, speak with a physician about getting a referral to the Older Adult Behavioral Health Unit. 6 HEALTH ESSENTIALS WINTER 2012

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Health Essentials - Winter 2012 - Marymount

Health Essentials - Winter 2012 - Marymount
Contents
A message from the interim president
Is your pregnancy high-risk? Here's how to prepare
Doing it her way
Help for seniors struggling with mental issues
Our expert answers your questions
Don't miss these health events and screenings

Health Essentials - Winter 2012 - Marymount