After leading a lifetime of accomplishment and good health, adults over the age of 65 can develop needs that deserve a highly specialized program of care. That’s why in 2008, Mount Sinai took steps to advance the best in geriatric care by creating new, dedicated nursing roles with a focus on geriatric mental health and emergency management.

These specialized nurses are active in providing comprehensive assessment of patients’ needs, program development, educating other staff about best practices, and offering resources and reassurance to family members of patients who require ongoing care.

“Collaboration between patients, their families and the health-care team is essential to my role and the geriatric program,” says Clinical Nurse Specialist Rebecca Ramsden. “I strive to make a difference directly at the patient level and indirectly through knowledge development. My role is gratifying on so many levels.”

In November 2008, Mount Sinai celebrated the opening of The Cyril & Dorothy, Joel & Jill Reitman Centre for Alzheimer’s Support and Training. Under the guidance of clinical coaches, including nurses like Andria Aiello, the Centre provides at-home caregivers with the tools to successfully support their loved ones affected by dementia.

“The Centre’s 12-week skills training program features simulated real-life situations so that caregivers can be prepared to handle the same situations at home,” explains Aiello. “The program is unique in Canada; it’s very innovative and family-focused.”

Geriatric nursing expertise also extends to one of Mount Sinai’s busiest departments. At the Schwartz/Reisman Emergency Centre, Carla Loftus, Geriatric Emergency Management Clinical Nurse Specialist, provides assessment and educational support to patients who are well enough to return home, but who may be at risk for falls, memory loss, depression and other conditions. She also works to link patients and families to additional community resources.

“At the Emergency Centre, I am focused on providing targeted care and information so patients and their families can manage at home without needing to come back to the hospital,” says Loftus. “I enjoy the team environment and the opportunity I have to influence best practices. Patient and Family Centred-Care is really the heart of what we do.”