According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Maine is the oldest state in the country. In addition, by 2030, seven to eight million American baby boomers will be 65+ years old. To help support older Mainers, St. Joseph Healthcare in Bangor has taken steps to adapt its services to better accommodate the needs of older adults. Specifically, they recently celebrated the opening of nine age-friendly updated rooms on one of its in-patient care units.

“The renovations were made possible thanks to the leadership of Senator Susan Collins and Senator Angus King who supported a $1.5 million grant,” says J. Bradford Coffey, Esq., Covenant Health senior vice president and foundation president. “The project was also partially funded through donations to The Campaign for St. Joe’s.”

What is age-friendly healthcare?

It’s an effort that focuses on making sure every older person gets the best care possible, isn’t hurt, and is happy with their care. It focuses on these four Ms:

• What Matters – Matching care to what an older adult would like.
• Medication – Prescribing appropriate medicine.
• Mentation – Managing dementia, depression, and more.
• Mobility – Ensuring an older adult safely moves every day.

The unit’s specific improvements include:

• New Paint Colors: Light-colored paint creates a soothing environment to promote healing and creates contrast to assist with depth awareness.
• New Furniture: Including comfortable patient recliners that are easier to maneuver.
• Improved Lighting: Brighter, dimmable, and auto on/off mode lights help accommodate older adults who may have trouble seeing.
• Upgraded Flooring: Featuring slip-resistant materials to prevent falls in the bathroom.
• Higher Toilets and Handrails: Allowing for safer use of the bathroom for patients.
• New Handrails in Patient Rooms: Assists older adults who may struggle with balance or weakness.
• Updated Showers: Allows for easy walk-in and a built-in bench for patients who may need to sit while bathing.
• New Whiteboards: Larger words and more organized care directions that include the 4Ms.
• Larger Televisions: Allows patients with trouble seeing to watch television.
• Room Signage: Helps patients find their rooms by picking an image that is familiar to them.
• Comfort Care Rooms: Offers lounge chairs so family members can comfortably spend the night.
• Additional Ceiling Lifts: Helps with safely moving patients.

“We’re on a continuing journey to deliver patient-centered care,” says Lynn King, RN, senior director of clinical services. “We’ve prioritized implementing age-friendly healthcare improvements because they greatly improve the overall safety and well-being of our older patients.”

“Mainers are living longer, more active lives. Therefore, we’re trying to serve them with care that is complete and compassionate as well as with an environment that is welcoming, comfortable, and safe,” adds Roland Joy, MSN, RN, vice president of patient care services.