Our Services

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Geriatric Day Hospital Program
The Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus

OUR PURPOSE:
To provide comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment for patients who are experiencing a change in function, memory, mood, or have complex medical issues. Short- term treatment, counseling, and education are available to patients and their caregivers to facilitate community support and long- term care planning.

HOURS OF OPERATION:
9: 00 a. m. to 4: 00 p. m. Monday to Friday

TRANSPORTATION
The patient is responsible for his/ her own transportation to and from the Day Hospital.

REFERRAL PROCESS
Referral for client assessment is initiated by the patient’s family physician.

The patient will be seen initially in his or her own home by the Geriatric Outreach Assessor and an appointment at the Geriatric Unit Day Hospital Program will be arranged if necessary.

A family conference may be arranged as required when the assessment has been completed.

The patient, family, friends, caregivers, team members and appropriate community representatives may be invited to attend.

A written discharge summary with recommendations is provided. This is given to the patient and caregiver( s) and sent to the family physician and involved community agencies.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES INCLUDE:
Geriatrician
A physician specialising in geriatric medicine provides an assessment of the medical, emotional, social or memory changes and directs the treatment plan in consultation with the patient, caregiver( s), and family physician.

Registered Nurse (R. N.)
The R. N. acts as the case manager to coordinate the plan of care. They are also the primary contact to the patient and his or her caregiver throughout the assessment process.

Ward Clerk
The ward clerk is responsible for booking all appointments, and greeting patients and caregivers upon arrival to the unit.

Physiotherapist
Assesses mobility and balance, provides education, pain management and mobility aids as required. Sets up a home exercise program as indicated.

Occupational Therapist
Assesses skills related to aspects of the patient’s daily routine including memory skills, self-care, and home management activities. Assists the patient to achieve and maintain his or her greatest level of independence.

Social Worker
Assesses and provides brief counseling, education, and support to the patient and his or her caregiver( s) to enhance the quality of life of the family unit. Explores relocation options with the patient and family.

Dietitian
Assesses current intake and provides education and recommendations to maintain or improve nutritional status.

Speech and Language Pathologist
Assesses speech, language, memory and swallowing disorders. Provides counseling and recommendations for communication.

Pharmacist
Assesses medication regime and skills related to medication use. Provides education. Collaborates with the physician and retail pharmacist to optimise drug use. Consultation Services Includes Geriatric Psychiatrist, Neurologist and Neural Psychologist.

Resource Centre on Aging
Provides information on all aspects of aging to the elderly and those who care for them.

Home Care Case Manager
Acts as a liaison with the Home Care Program in the community and the Geriatric Assessment Unit.

THE FIRST VISIT
The patient’s first visit is often 3– 4 hours in length as it includes a thorough medical and nursing assessment. The appointment begins at 9: 00 a. m. It is important that an involved family member, caregiver, or friend accompany the patient to the first visit to help with the process of assessment. It is our expectation that patients and caregivers work in collaboration with the nurse and physician to establish goals for assessment. It is required that the patient bring all of his or her medication to the first visit. Coffee and a light lunch will be provided to the patient at no cost.

RETURN VISITS
The patient can expect to have 4– 5 visits scheduled over several weeks. The patient does not see every referred team member on each visit. The Geriatrician will communicate with the referring family physician as necessary during the assessment. If there are any medical emergencies during the assessment period, please contact your own family physician.

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