A warm, caring place for aging adults.
We all want the best for our aging family members. But as we grow older, diminishing physical and mental abilities, as well as the loss of loved ones, can often lead to sadness and withdrawal. And when these changes become persistent or unusual behaviors appear, it may signal an emotional or mental health disorder.
At Gateway Regional Medical Canter, we offer a 19-bed Senior Inpatient Psychiatric Unit that's specially designed for adults 55+. It's a warm, caring place for seniors experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, dementia or other mental health conditions. We're here to help you understand what's happening with your loved one and determine the best course of care.
Who qualifies?
Anyone 55+ who meets the criteria for inpatient treatment can be admitted. No physician referral is necessary. At Gateway Regional, you can be admitted in one of three ways:
- Emergency Room - for those experiencing a mental health crisis
- Intake Process - for those who call for an appointment (individuals, family, etc.)
- Transfer/Direct Admit - for those referred by a physician, nursing home or assisted living facility
All three methods involve a thorough intake assessment by qualified physicians, including a licensed psychiatrist. As part of the assessment, we also check for any underlying medical issues or prescription drug interactions that could be affecting behavior.
Caring for your loved one
Based on the results of the intake assessment, our team then works with the patient (and family) to develop a personalized treatment plan to address their needs and goals. During your loved one's stay, they'll be cared for by a variety of behavioral health professionals, including a psychiatrist who may order medication to help improve their condition. Through it all, they'll be treated with kindness, encouragement and respect.
Treatment plan options
Depending on your loved one's specific needs, the treatment plan may include:
- 24-hour monitoring and supervision
- Stabilization and medication management
- One-on-one visits with a psychiatrist
- Individualized treatment
- Individual and group therapy/activities, including psycho-educational groups, recreation therapy, art and expressive therapy
- Management of secondary medical needs
- Nutritional assessments
- Patient and family education
- Court verification of involuntary status
- Assistance with discharge and aftercare planning
Ongoing help
At Gateway Regional Medical Center, we make sure our senior patients are well supported, even after they leave the hospital. As part of the discharge process, we take the time to line up any physicians, therapists, home health services and family support they might need. If your loved one is no longer able to live independently, we can also find placement in assisted living facilities or nursing homes. We can even appear in court to verify a patient's involuntary status, if requested.
Ultimately, we make it our job to involve every member of the patient's team, including the family, in aftercare decisions. Because at Gateway Regional, we understand the importance that family plays in giving our seniors the best life possible.
Taking the next step
If you know a senior who needs assistance, don't wait. Call 618-798-3888 to learn more about our Senior Inpatient Unit or to schedule an intake assessment. At Gateway Regional Medical Center, we're here to help you help the ones you love.
NOTE: If you or a loved one is actively suicidal, call 911 immediately. This is a medical emergency, and you must seek care as soon as possible. Other emergencies that may warrant a trip to the ER include psychosis, violent behavior or homicidal behavior. If you're not sure what to do, call 911.