Look for a Healing Environment When Choosing a Rehabilitation Community

If you or a loved one has been injured, had an operation or requires short-term rehabilitation, you will be interested in the services of a sub-acute rehabilitation community.

You have a myriad of options when choosing a rehabilitation community, but not all are the same. While many offer similar services, the right rehabilitation program is about more than just the services available. The overall healing environment should be considered, as well.

What Comprises a Healing Environment?

A rehabilitation community that looks at the whole patient and the connection between mind, body and spirit creates a healing environment that enhances well-being and encourages faster recovery and better outcomes. It should include:

1An experienced and compassionate team who can talk to the patient about their hopes and expectations and include them and their family in a personalized care plan.

2Positive relationships between the patient and the medical team. Ideally, the group takes a collaborative approach using integrative medicine to address the whole person.

3The use of physical design to enhance healing potential using color, light, sound and nature in a comfortable, soothing space.

Look for a Healing Environment When Choosing a Rehabilitation Community The combination of these components creates a positive environment, promotes healing and minimizes stress.

Quality of Care

Baked into the healing environment is the quality of care. Here are a few questions to ask when evaluating the care provided: n What is the staff-to-patient ratio? How does it compare to state requirements? n How high is the staff turnover rate? n What health measures are in place to ensure residents are safe and comfortable while mitigating threats, such as COVID-19? n Does the medical team work with each resident individually to create a personalized care plan? n What supplemental therapies are available? Speech? Physical? Occupational? n What is the current Medicare rating? n Is assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) offered? Visit the community and observe how the staff interacts with patients and each other. Evaluate the community’s cleanliness and whether it is comfortable and welcoming.

Amenities and Services

Depending on healthcare needs, a stay in a rehabilitation community could last days to weeks. Part of a healing environment is keeping residents positive and engaged during their stay.

Look for a range of amenities and services, including: n Pool n Fitness center n Spacious, private rooms n Beauty salon/barbershop n Planned daily activities n Entertainment n Dining area n Individualized services

One thing to consider is the distance between resident rooms and dining, activity and rehabilitation areas. Another is the dining program and meal options. Ask for a sample menu. Are special diets accommodated? How is the food? Is it freshly prepared?

Making the Choice

Choosing a rehabilitation community can be challenging, and ensuring there is a healing environment takes some effort. By asking the right questions, gathering information and visiting the community in person, you can make an informed decision and feel confident about your choice. ~

Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Elizabeth Dupree, Director of Sales and Marketing at Edgehill and may be reached at 203-595-2307 or by email at edupree@benchmarkquality.com.