Patient Care Services

ACE (Acute Care for the Elderly) Unit
Extended hospitalization can be difficult for anyone, especially older patients who may become disoriented and lose ground without their familiar routines and physical activity.

To help them cope, Greenwich Hospital is now offering a new, interdisciplinary inpatient unit called ACE, or Acute Care for the Elderly. Based on a nationally recognized model and staffed by certified geriatric resource nurses, the unit provides a unique combination of resources to strengthen frail minds and bodies.

The capabilities of the ACE unit are directed to older hospitalized patients who are clinically stable but whose medical needs require continued treatment in the hospital. By providing them with intensive, interdisciplinary support, Greenwich Hospital's ACE team can enhance their ability to recover.

The ACE team
In addition to the specialized nursing staff, the ACE team includes a geriatrician, clinical nurse specialist and social worker from the Center for Healthy Aging. The Center's pharmacist, too, is available to review medications for possible interactions. Patients and families also can see a dietitian for nutritional counseling and a case manager to coordinate care and help prepare for discharge.

Since mobility is an important priority for ACE patients, a physical therapy room is located right on the unit. Integrative medicine specialists are also on the team, providing massage and other relaxation services for patients and family members.

Recreation from Greenwich Adult Day Center
Recreational therapy is another noteworthy aspect of ACE care.The hospital has partnered with Greenwich Adult Day Center to provide appropriate activities so that patients can be fully engaged. The intent is to improve each patient's functional status while in the hospital and best plan for their transition to home or an alternate setting.

Resources for caregivers, too
Equally important is the role of the ACE team in helping caregivers prepare for discharge. Support groups and counseling will enable family members to identify and contact resources within the community.