Skilled Nursing and Supportive Care The Team

Every resident has a cross-disciplinary team providing care. The team members have all been extensively trained in dementia and receive continuing education in the specialty every year.

Team members work closely together so that care is coordinated and builds on the resident’s individual strengths and preferences. The resident’s family is an important member of the team. The teams are made up of the following individuals:

Certified Nursing Assistant  – The CNA provides direct care and may help with bathing, getting dressed, and other daily activities. The CNA develops a close relationship with the resident, and is always around to give encouragement, have a conversation or a laugh, help with an activity, or maybe just give a shoulder rub. Each resident has a consistent CNA, so that familiarity and a strong connection develop between them.

Nurse – The nurse administers medications and treatments (such as changing a dressing). As part of the team, the nurse can address symptoms before a medical problem becomes severe, proactively helping residents stay healthy and well. The nursing model of care lessens the burden on families, because much of the resident’s medical care takes place at Carleton-Willard, which means that family members do not have to take residents to doctor or dentist appointments.

Nurse Manager – The nurse manager is the liaison with the resident’s physician and is the person the family calls for help with any medical concerns. The nurse manager discusses any medical updates with the family, such as changes in medication or in a resident’s medical status.

Activities Staff – The activities staff plan a range of engaging activities that fit the different interests and abilities of our residents. Some activities are designed to stimulate thinking and remembering, while others emphasize use of the senses. If residents with memory loss are engaged in a meaningful activity, their self-esteem is enhanced.

Music and Expressive Therapist – The music and expressive therapist uses music and the arts to help residents stay socially engaged; maintain physical, cognitive and emotional health; and decrease the effects of pain, confusion, depression and anxiety. She will guide the residents to sing, read or write poetry and stories, play the drums or chimes, listen to great music, or make art.

Fitness Staff – The fitness staff offers exercise programs twice a week, including the use of NuStep equipment. Residents are also able to go to the Village fitness center on campus for a more extensive range of exercise equipment and classes.

Director – The director helps residents successfully transition to their new environment and addresses any psychological or social needs that develop. The director also leads a monthly support group for family members.