We’ve all seen it, you know, the old commercial where a senior falls in her home and cries out that she’s fallen and can’t get up. So many recognize the commercial that today that line is practically a punch line. However, the reality is, falling is no laughing matter – especially for seniors. Did you know, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): 20 percent of all falls cause serious injury, most often head injuries or hip fractures. Each year, 2.8 million seniors receive emergency room treatment as a result of falls. More than 800,00 seniors are hospitalize...

Well, Summer is finally here! For many families, that means preparing for fun-filled vacations and relaxing getaways. But if you are one of the thousands of caregivers tasked with caring for an aging loved one, a vacation or weekend getaway, may seem impossible or out-of-reach. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for caregivers to feel overwhelmed by the emotional and physical strain of the responsibility of taking the best care of their loved ones. While you as a caregiver may be reluctant to admit you could use a break, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to be in this alone ...

If you or a loved one has been experiencing a medical condition that requires a more concentrated level of care, it’s likely that your doctor may have recommended short-term rehabilitation. At this point, you may be asking yourself, “What’s the point?” With that important question in mind, below, we’ve laid-out four core benefits that short-term rehabilitation provides as well as to why it may be worth your time, energy and commitment: Quality of Recovery: Some may say, “Hey, I’m healthy and active, I even have a long-time exercise regimen, what do I need rehab for?” The reali...

Mother’s Day is almost here, and it’s the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with the important women in your life – for many, that means visiting a senior mom or grandmother being cared for at a skilled nursing facility. While your mother or grandmother will be glad to just spend time with you, planning a special Mother’s Day activity is a great way to show your love and appreciation. Here are a few ideas to help you celebrate Mother’s Day with a senior mom: Treat her to a manicure: A manicure or pedicure is a thoughtful gift idea for your mother or grandmother, especia...

Back in December, Carl Steager lost his dear wife of over 50 years. Shortly after, at a time when things appeared like they couldn’t get any worse, Carl was involved in a motor vehicle accident on his way home from work and was hospitalized. Carl came to The Gardens at Gettysburg having been discharged from the hospital and in need of rehabilitation, specifically pertaining to strengthening. Upon admission, Carl required the use of a walker with supervision and had difficulty remembering where he was. Working with Carl, our therapy teams developed a recovery plan to Carl regain his strength ...

A volunteer troupe of Shrine Clowns paid a fun-filled visit to the residents of local nursing home, The Gardens at Gettysburg. It was “Flower Day” and so with bouquets in hand, “Bubba”, “Pickles” and “Archie”, handed a flower to each resident. One, resident, Carol Armstrong proudly showed off her collection of flowers she’s received from the group upon each visit. The Shrine Clowns have been visiting The Gardens at Gettysburg annually for over twenty years and have become welcomed and beloved guests by our residents. “Some may see the bold makeup, red noses and silly costum...

June Spencer came to the Gardens at Gettysburg having undergone hip replacement surgery at nearby Gettysburg Hospital. June turned to our therapy teams for strengthening, to improve ambulation and for pain reduction. Working with June, our staff developed a comprehensive rehabilitation plan along with attainable strategic objectives. One look at June’s flower-filled room (courtesy of her friends and beloved family) and the team knew June had the backing and support she needed to get back on her feet – it was our job to help make that dream possible and help her across that finish line! In ...

June Spencer came to the Gardens at Gettysburg having undergone hip replacement surgery at nearby Gettysburg Hospital. June turned to our therapy teams for strengthening, to improve ambulation and for pain reduction. Working with June, our staff developed a comprehensive rehabilitation plan along with attainable strategic objectives. One look at June’s flower-filled room (courtesy of her friends and beloved family) and the team knew June had the backing and support she needed to get back on her feet – it was our job to help make that dream possible and help her across that finish line! In ...