The Geriatric Memory Care Transitional Care Unit (GMCTCU) at Walker Methodist is a state-of-the art program specializing in short-term rehabilitative services for patients with memory care needs.

Our team assists those who require transitional care, physical, occupational and speech therapy as well as discharge planning for patients with memory care needs.

Higher Level of Involvement

Our team includes:

• Nurses
• Nursing assistants
• Nurse manager
• Social worker
• Recreational therapist
• Dietician
• Health unit coordinator
• Housekeeping staff
• Chaplain
• Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy staff
  

The GMCTCU also partners with an intra-professional team consisting of a geriatrician, geriatric nurse practitioner, and pharmacist from the University of Minnesota as well as a team from the Associated Clinic of Psychology who provide on-going education and support to our patients, families and staff.

The Walker Methodist GMCTCU is just one of the important steps involved in an active and healthy recovery.

Admission

Each patient is assessed by the admissions staff. Families and care givers can request to meet with the staff to review guidelines and tour the community.
The patient must meet the minimum criteria:

• require 24-hour skilled nursing care
• require daily therapy or extensive nursing services
• is medically stable
• has memory care needs or evidence of dementia
• is physically able to participate in therapy / rehabilitative nursing program
• has secure payor source at time of admission

Patients being admitted must be seen by a physician within 24 hours prior to admission. Patients can be assessed and admitted from 8am – 5pm Monday though Friday.

Arrival

A nurse and social worker provide orientation to the unit. Family and caregiver interviews and questionnaires provide valuable information about the patient’s health, social needs and personal preferences for the development of a specialized plan of care.

It is most helpful for the team when a family member or responsible party is present for admission.

Surroundings

We encourage families and caregivers to bring small, personal items to the patient’s room. Familiar objects like photographs, books and CDs are suggested. Other memory aids are available from the social service staff.

Activities

A dedicated Therapeutic Recreation Specialist is available to meet with patients and families to learn and understand more about individual leisure preferences. A daily schedule of activities and functional rehab programs are designed to enhance the patient experience while offering a therapeutic and rehabilitation benefit in the recovery process. Cards, games and a variety of other activities are available for patients and family use at any time.

Televisions are also available in patient’s rooms, the community room and in the family lounge.

Meals and Nutritional Needs

Meals are served three times a day with snacks available anytime. Our dietitian is available to discuss specific nutritional needs. On specific days, special meals are prepared with the residents as part of our functional rehabilitation program.

Families and caregivers are encouraged to bring in food items that may stimulate appetite or bring enjoyment to the patient.

Care Conferences

Care conferences are held within one week of admission. Clarification of patient goals and future discharge plans are the main topics of discussion.

Goals

Walker Methodist’s GMCTCU prides itself on providing a calm environment for both the patient and the family.

Ultimately, our goal is to partner with you or your loved one during this transition - walking you through each step of the process towards recovery and a safe return home.

For more information about Walker Methodist’s GMCTCU, please contact 612.827.8311