Edgewood in Hermantown is Celebrating 25 Years!

building exterior

Edgewood Healthcare Hermantown is Celebrating 25th Years, & Hosting a Celebration

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

News Release

Contact: Brian Haselman

Title: Executive Director, Edgewood Healthcare, Hermantown

Phone: 701-738-2000

 

(Hermantown, MN) Edgewood Healthcare will host a 25th anniversary celebration on Thursday, May 29. The event will feature live entertainment, tours, delicious appetizers and refreshments, and a grand prize drawing.

Edgewood Healthcare in Hermantown offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care and features on-site healthcare services. These services include CaringEdge, which provides home health, hospice, and outpatient therapy, and Legacy Medical, which offers the convenience of on-site primary care.

 

“I’ve had the privilege of serving this community for the past 10 years, and during that time, we’ve grown in so many meaningful ways. Welcoming on-site healthcare providers has been a game-changer, helping our residents feel their best and enjoy everything our community has to offer, all from the comfort of home,” Executive Director Brian Haselman said.

“Celebrating 25 years is an incredible milestone, and I’m truly excited for what’s ahead. I couldn’t be more thankful for the amazing residents, families, and dedicated team members who have made Edgewood such a special place,” Haselman added.

 

About Edgewood Healthcare: Edgewood Healthcare is the leading operator of senior living communities in the Great Plains and Upper Midwest. Since 1992, Edgewood has been committed to helping seniors stay as independent as possible, for as long as possible, with well-trained staff members in communities designed to provide various living and care options. Edgewood owns and/or operates more than 60 independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities with over 4,100 beds in seven states (North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Idaho) and employs nearly 3,300 people. Edgewood Healthcare’s corporate offices are at 402 Demers Avenue, Suite 200, Grand Forks, N.D.

Make the Most of Your Snowbird Adventures!

Female with suitcase

If you’re a seasoned snowbird, you probably look forward to your journey all year. Escaping the challenges of winter for a bright, sunny paradise full of hobbies sounds both relaxing and thrilling—but only if your health and abilities allow.

 

To truly enjoy any experience, it’s essential to feel your best. Your favorite restaurants, destinations, and events won’t be enjoyable if you’re sick or in pain.

 

 

 

 

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Prioritize Your Health Before You Go

 

 

 

Pack Smart for a Stress-Free Trip

 

A well-planned packing list ensures a smooth transition to your seasonal home.

 

Snowbird Easier

 

If prepping your home for travel is overwhelming, consider simplifying your living situation. Downsizing or renting instead of owning can reduce financial and maintenance burdens, allowing for more flexibility and peace of mind while you’re away. Large home expenses—like a new roof or plumbing repairs—can impact travel plans, making a low-maintenance lifestyle a smart alternative.

 

Edgewood: Your Snowbird-Friendly Living Option

 

At Edgewood, we offer 55+ apartments and independent living options designed for active adults who want fewer home-related responsibilities and more time to travel. Our short-term stays are also perfect if:

With Edgewood, you can focus on living life to the fullest—wherever your snowbird adventures take you! Ready to explore a hassle-free lifestyle that supports your travels? Contact Edgewood today at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com!

A Little Help Keeps You Strong

Senior ladies walking arm in arm as a group We might all know that asking for help is a better, safer option for accomplishing certain things, but we might choose to struggle to maintain the appearance of being independent. Why does it feel like lending a hand to help others is easier than asking for help when we need it?

Staying Independent

Many of us have raised families, held important careers, and efficiently got things done for decades without batting an eye. Doing things ourselves can be a source of pride from a young age. Once we learn to do something, we do it.

 

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No one wants to admit something is too hard, that they’re too tired, or that they’ve succumbed to an injury or illness. Letting someone else take over can feel unusual and even frustrating—especially later in life. Here are some additional thoughts that may prevent people from asking for the help they need:

 Whoa! Mic drop! Advice like, “You need to move to senior living,” could prevent someone from asking for help ever again—even if they should!

Advice for Helping Senior Loved Ones

If an aging loved one contacts you for help, rally a team. Maybe that’s a few family members with their best interests in mind or perhaps a trusted friend or neighbor. If the help they need is extensive, the team approach can offer relief.

Discuss as a group what service options are available. Consult with providers in the area or work as a team to assist until a helpful decision can be made. Suggesting senior living as an immediate solution to their needs isn’t the best approach to helping—not everyone needs it, and not everyone is ready.

Sometimes, it just takes having peace of mind that someone is available to help for improvements to be made. That could mean hiring caregivers through home care services or even home healthcare staff. Needing help isn’t always permanent.

Say your loved one had a fall and is recovering, or they had an illness that caused them to slow down a bit. In those instances, home health therapies could help them get stronger. A nurse could oversee their care and help them reach their goals right at home.

Home health services can help seniors in private residences or senior living apartments. In either setting, they aim to strengthen their clients so they can do things safely and independently. From hands-on care to education, home care and home health can help seniors prolong their move to senior living if they’re not ready.

Most people put off senior living and moving from the homes they’ve lived in for decades because they want to maintain their independence. In reality, senior living can help encourage each resident to have a voice and keep doing what they can for as long as possible. Residents can choose from a wide range of services to meet their needs.

Prospective residents meet with a nurse before moving in to discuss their abilities and health. Sometimes, independent living is more appropriate for residents who need little support. Care levels can also change after a resident moves in based on what each resident truly needs to maintain their health.

Senior living has evolved into all-around wellness, so those who choose to live in our communities, whether in independent living, assisted living, or memory care, all have access to the services they need to live fulfilled, purposeful lives. If you’d like to learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com. We’d love for you to tour and experience senior living firsthand.

Edgewood Healthcare Expands Services in Mandan, ND

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

News Release

Contact: Robert Ford Jr.

Title: President of Edgewood Healthcare Senior Living Division

Phone: 701-738-2000

(Grand Forks, N.D.)

Edgewood Healthcare of Grand Forks, N.D., is excited to announce its expansion within Mandan, ND. Edgewood has acquired Lakewood Landing, located at 4401 21st St SE, Mandan, ND, and will assume operations, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care residences on January 31, 2025.

Edgewood Mandan at Lakewood will be Edgewood’s fourth community, joining the Bismarck-Mandan area, which includes Edgewood Dominion, Edgewood Village, and Edgewood Mandan. Each community offers independent living, assisted living, memory care services, on-site therapies, home health, hospice, and primary care services.

Edgewood Healthcare’s President, Robert Ford Jr., announced, “We’re thrilled to expand our operations to help even more seniors in the Bismarck-Mandan area to live independently while having the compassionate care they deserve right outside their front door.”

Ford continued, “We’re excited to bring more than three decades of senior living experience and the Edgewood Healthcare brand into our newest community.”

 

About Edgewood Healthcare

Edgewood Healthcare is the leading operator of senior living communities in the upper Midwest. Since 1992, Edgewood has been committed to helping seniors stay as independent as possible, for as long as possible, with well-trained staff members in communities designed for residents to receive various living and care options. Edgewood owns and/or operates more than 60 independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities with over 4,100 beds in seven states (North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Idaho) and employs nearly 3,300 people. Edgewood Healthcare’s corporate offices are at 402 Demers Avenue Ste 200 in Grand Forks, ND 58201.

Short-Term Stays Lead to Long-Term Success

 

Just like it sounds, a short-term stay temporarily allows someone to stay in assisted living. Moving is a big decision, as is giving up a long-term residence. Coming in to try before signing long-term can be a useful way to help seniors choose where they’d like to spend their future.

Short-term stays offer choice and flexibility. From helping caregivers who need a break to supporting those recovering from surgeries, these brief stays can provide the extra help someone needs to return home healthy or refreshed.

 

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Recovery time from surgeries or hospitalizations can be variable, even if those surgeries are same-day. Proper healing can be complicated without a solid plan or support available around the clock.

Connie’s Short-Term Stay Experience:

Following knee replacement surgery and a short-term stay at Edgewood Hawks Point in Dickinson, Connie Williams is back to driving, walking without mobility aides, volunteering, and living an active lifestyle. Connie understood that recovering from knee replacement surgery alone could be very difficult, so she came to Edgewood for a short-term stay this past summer. Not knowing what to expect, Connie anticipated a two-week recovery; she stayed for under six weeks but reported having a great experience!

Connie was well-acquainted with Edgewood because she’d been visiting a friend at Hawks Point for several years. During one of their visits, she mentioned her upcoming knee replacement surgery over dinner (at Edgewood, we allow guests to join our residents for meals—just be sure to call ahead and let us know you’re coming). A helpful staff member overheard their conversation and shared with Connie that she could stay at Edgewood while recovering.

After working out the financial details and ensuring her cat, Boody, could join her, her mind was made up. While moving, even for a minimal amount of time, can cause anxiety for some, thankfully, Connie had a seamless experience.

Getting Acclimated:

“I wasn’t nervous at all. They showed me the room ahead of time. I had a whirlwind. School ended at the end of May (Connie volunteers at Hope Christian Academy). The next week, I had an MRI, went to Ohio to visit friends, and did laundry, and the next Monday, I took two days to move in, then had knee replacement surgery. I found it very helpful for the nurses to manage pain medications and attend to my ice machine every four hours.”

Connie’s experience at Edgewood was a success all the way around. She added,

“The meals were very good, and the service was great as well. They have a menu for meals, but if you don’t want what is on the menu, you can order whatever you want!  Also, if you are going to stay there, you should check with the activity gals; they do all kinds of activities. They have once-a-month birthday parties, music, movies on Sundays, manicures, crafts, an exercise room, transportation to appointments and church, and a weekly trip to Walmart.”

Aside from excellent care for herself, Connie explained that the staff was also very kind to her cat, Boody (pictured above in Connie’s lap). Since her stay, Boody has sadly passed away at age 20. Connie was grateful for the years she spent with her beloved cat.

A big hit with the residents at Edgewood—Boody was somewhat of a local celebrity at Hawks Point! She walked the catwalk in a fashion show, modeling 15 outfits! Check it out for yourself by clicking on this Facebook Post.

Since recovering from knee replacement surgery, Connie is back to using stairs, driving, and enjoying an active lifestyle. She’s considering returning as a volunteer to call BINGO on the weekends. Additionally, if she opts for a second knee replacement surgery on her opposite knee, Connie says she will return for another short-term stay!

Common Reasons for Short-Term Stays

Falls, weight loss, depression, infections, and other common health issues can make living alone difficult. If residents begin new medications that require some supervision and monitoring, short-term stays can allow them to have the extra support they need temporarily to meet their needs.

Lastly, short-term stays can also be a great way to try before you buy—or at least before signing a long-term lease. Moving to senior living isn’t usually at the top of anyone’s list.

People often put off moving for as long as possible. Unfortunately, unaddressed health and safety issues can lead to decline or injuries for those who wait too long. Short-term stays can give residents a real feel for senior living before they sign a long-term lease, and they can get them the help they need sooner rather than later.

Selling a forever home and moving somewhere you’re uncertain about can be very emotional. Keeping your home while you try out senior living for a month or a few weeks can help you ease into making a long-term choice with confidence. It can also be a great way to meet new friends who have already moved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Short-Term Stays:

Do People Get the Same Care & Services?

Yes (Sometimes they can even bring a pet)!

Do Some Residents Choose to Stay?

They sure do! Sometimes, short-term residents come in following surgeries multiple times. Others may return once they’re ready to shift into senior living full-time.

Can Families Still Visit?

Of course! At Edgewood, we offer additional community spaces where families can gather.

How Long Can I Stay?

You can stay as long as you like—a week, a month, or a season. Contact us to ask about our options, as they may vary in each community.

What Should I Bring?

We have almost everything covered, so residents can bring the items that comfort them, but there’s no need to pack the whole house. Leave the shovel, vacuum cleaner, and lawn mower behind!

Can I Continue to See My Own Medical Providers Off-Site?

Most certainly! Better yet, if residents need help communicating with providers or coordinating transportation, we can help.

If you’re interested in experiencing senior living before you sign a long-term lease, contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com!

Could Outpatient Therapy Help Me? Your Questions Answered!

 

What is Physical Therapy, or “PT?”

Physical therapy helps you maintain mobility and quality of life. Physical therapists can get you moving again! Using scientifically based treatment techniques that focus on restoring function, reducing pain, and correcting or preventing injury, this branch of therapy could help you stay active and independent!

 Can I receive outpatient physical therapy services without a physician’s referral?

Most likely, but it’s always best to find out if you qualify before you start, to avoid any out-of-pocket surprises. If you suspect your insurance provider will require prior authorization, let us check your coverage! If your particular problem requires treatment that is outside the realm of therapy, we can also help you find a qualified physician or other trained medical professionals who may be able to help.

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What should I expect on my first visit?

Our staff can help you complete the required paperwork on your first visit. We can call and check on all of your insurance benefits for you, and provide that information in writing. We understand that dealing with insurance companies can often be confusing and intimidating, so we will happily help you understand how outpatient physical therapy is covered under your insurance plan. You will be seen by a licensed physical therapist who will discuss the following:

Your physical therapist will then perform a thorough physical examination designed for your specific problem. This may include:

Your physical therapist will then develop a specific plan based on your unique condition. This plan will have your specific goals in mind and will address your concerns as thoroughly as possible.

How long will each treatment last?  

Therapy sessions typically are 45-60 minutes.

What types of treatments will I receive?

Our therapists are trained to provide effective treatments including:

Can I choose where I receive physical therapy?

Definitely! You have every right to choose your clinic and your physical therapist (within your insurance network). This includes receiving it on-site at most Edgewood Healthcare communities!

Why should I choose a private practice physical therapist?

There has been a significant amount of research done on this topic over the years, and numerous research studies support that patients seen by private practice physical therapists:

What kind of education will my physical therapist have?

Almost all physical therapists now have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy is more than dressing, showering, and toileting care. It entails working with patients to help them achieve a fulfilled and satisfied state in life through the use of therapeutic activities designed to promote health, prevent injury or disability, and improve,  sustain, and restore the highest possible level of independence. Here are some of the signs occupational therapy can benefit the residents of Edgewood and the 55 + communities:

Endurance

Balance

Cognition

Coordination

Home Safety

What is Speech Therapy?

Adult speech therapy services are often misunderstood and underutilized. As a result, many adults who need the treatment are underserved. Would you know the signs if you or a loved one needed treatment? Get in the know and spread the word about adult speech pathology services offered through CaringEdge!

Signs of a cognitive deficit

Signs of speech/language deficits

Signs of swallowing impairment

Signs of a voice disorder

If you’ve seen enough of this great information and you’d like to find out if you’re a candidate for outpatient therapy, reach out to us at info@caringedge.com.

Why You Should Look At Senior Living Differently

 

Senior living has seen a complete transformation. Today, those looking at senior living don’t need to settle for the sterile, inactive lifestyle it once was. Instead, senior living communities encourage our residents to retain their independence to ensure they thrive socially, physically, and emotionally. Additionally, seniors are moving in because they want to, not because they have to. While Edgewood Healthcare has implemented these philosophies, we continue to adapt our services to fit the needs of residents and create a healthcare lifestyle all under one roof to provide the ultimate of continuum care. Senior living communities owe it to their residents to provide peace of mind that their physical, emotional, and mental well-being will be maintained and elevated through high-quality healthcare, no matter the health journey they may be on!

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The Edgewood Health Network

Officially launched in 2020, our health network offers a holistic team of medical providers who partner with us to offer you the right care and support in the comfort of the resident’s home, wherever they call home. We offer a team of healthcare experts dedicated to not only specialized health services, but also providing education and hands-on training to residents, families, and the greater community.

This “continuum of care” network allows our residents to live their golden years to the fullest. The convenience and availability of these services are specially designed to help our residents maintain independence, allowing them to stay in their homes longer, minimizing the severity of illnesses that could result in hospital or emergency room visits, and overall, strengthening access to professionals that focus on what seniors want to do rather than what they can’t do.

A Personalized Solution to Fit Your Needs

Robert Ford, President of Edgewood Healthcare, shares that healthcare is all about having choices.

We believe that all of our residents deserve to have the flexibility and options to choose the services they require at the time they need them. While you will, of course, have access to practitioners with the local Edgewood Health Network, your healthcare story is in your hands.

Upon joining the community, you don’t have to leave your current doctor, and we encourage residents to retain their current Primary Care Providers. Our team of specialists will be able to communicate with them regularly and work together to understand the resident’s current care plan and needs.

Our network of healthcare is explained in this video about Ruby and her options, the stress-free process of moving into Edgewood, and the fact that Edgewood’s team will always be there to support Ruby while she’s under their care. We have an extensive range of healthcare services, all of which can be offered to your loved ones under one roof. If an emergency occurs, an In-Home Provider will step in straight away. This is a practice that’s well accepted by hospitals and healthcare groups today, who understand that during the winter months or late at night, it might be impossible for a senior to visit their Primary Care Provider.

Quality Care Every Day

One of the most common misconceptions surrounding senior living is that healthcare is only for when you are sick or injured. We also work to prevent injury or illness. Our compassionate nurses monitor residents daily to ensure they are healthy and thriving. By taking blood pressure readings and offering medication as needed, we can minimize the chance of illness further down the line. Residents are also encouraged to follow procedures that can reduce the likelihood of a fall, offering them an improved quality of life for years to come.

Our nurses take a very personal approach to caring for our residents, and our communication is top-notch when noticing changes. Upon a medical change, nurses will immediately notify our In-Home Provider so that colds, sinus infections, dehydration, or other chronic health conditions can be treated immediately. This proactive approach helps avoid any future or lasting issues and residents are often surprised by the attention to detail and personal approach they are treated with, as we believe that seniors deserve to be treated as individuals.

A Wide Variety of Services

The Edgewood Health Network offers a wide selection of services, including hospice care, home health, and outpatient therapy services through CaringEdge and other partnering providers. Our experienced team will care for you during every chapter of your personal health story. We’ve increased the availability of in-home physicians, outpatient therapy, home health, and hospice services and will work to expand these throughout other communities in the upcoming years.

Wherever you currently are in your healthcare journey, we’ll work to increase your quality of life and offer convenient healthcare to fit your needs. Our services will be delivered right to your door, so you can be supported through every stage of your golden years.

For more information about Edgewood Healthcare and the personalized services we can offer you or your family member, contact info@edgewoodhealthcare.com or find a community near you.

How Outpatient Therapy Helps Seniors Maintain Independence

No matter our age, we all have a purpose that guides the decisions we make every day. Whether it’s parenthood, a career, a passion, or a combination of these factors, this purpose evolves as we grow and comes to define us the longer we live.

However, fulfilling our purpose relies heavily on autonomy, especially as we age. That’s why losing independence is a prevalent fear for seniors.

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Aging is inevitable, but at Edgewood Healthcare, we believe in educating the public on what to expect as we age, dispelling stigmas about aging, helping people prepare for their senior years, and providing quality services that allow people to thrive in every circumstance later in life.

COVID-19 has further exposed the importance of access to a consistent support network for seniors, especially health services. However, because seniors are the most at-risk age group for experiencing severe complications from the virus if they are not yet vaccinated, seniors and their families have understandably delayed their decision to move into senior living. Other logistics – like social distancing, mobility issues, or finances – have also made the decision more stressful.

Our team at Edgewood Healthcare understands these concerns and is here to answer any questions about moving to senior living during the pandemic. Each of our 64 communities continues to follow COVID-19 protocols, provide a mitigated move-in process for new residents, and offer additional support necessary to ensure a smooth transition. We also provide COVID-19 vaccines to new residents as soon as possible and are slowly reopening our visitation, activities, and communal dining.

Pandemic or not, seniors want to maintain their independence as much as possible. Please keep reading to learn why seniors fear losing their independence and how outpatient therapy services can help seniors maintain autonomy and quality of life.

Why Seniors Fear Losing Their Independence

We all value our independence. It’s what gives us the freedom to live our lives. However, as we age, our bodies and minds inevitably change. Most developments are simply due to time, but our genetics, habits, and health history determine others. Any of these factors can lead to physical or cognitive decline that impacts the ability of seniors to fulfill daily tasks and live independently.

If this happens, seniors worry they’ll become a burden on their loved ones if they can no longer take care of themselves. It’s natural to feel this way. However, how is this fear different for seniors versus other age groups? We consulted with our staff members Chris Lougheed, Vice President of Therapy Services for CaringEdge Health Network, and Christan Kostelecky, Senior Director of Therapy Services for CaringEdge, to learn more about this common fear.

“For seniors, the fear of losing independence is related to their definition of their sole purpose,” says Lougheed, whose professional background includes physical therapy. “When we’re younger, that purpose is being an athlete, a parent, or a working professional, but as we age, our purpose is more defined by our function and daily living. It hits seniors harder because those roles no longer define them.”

Kostelecky, an occupational therapist, adds that this fear is “more compounded” for seniors because it’s a stage in life where people experience more loss – whether it’s due to loved ones moving away, retirement, or the death of a family member or friend. Loss has been exacerbated during COVID-19, as many seniors have lost loved ones, social interaction, and precious time during the pandemic.

“When we’re seniors, we may have to let go of some of the earlier roles we’ve used to define ourselves. The new roles are now our activities of daily living and, hopefully, activities we enjoy,” she says. “I think the losses seniors experience later in life drives that fear of ‘What else will I lose? Can I still drive? Can I still take care of myself?’ for seniors. They become afraid of having people tell them what to do and how to do it, making them feel out of control (of their own lives).”Seniors are also at a heightened risk for physical injuries later in life, Lougheed says. “When you’re a senior, you don’t know if you’ll recover from a fractured hip (or other injury),” he says. “It feels more finite, which can be scary for seniors.”

Kostelecky adds that difficulty maintaining self-care, social isolation, and increased safety concerns when moving around the house due to cognitive or physical factors are also significant indicators that it’s time to consider other options.

Fortunately, seniors and their loved ones have many options to explore to preserve their independence, no matter what twists and turns their health may bring. Edgewood Healthcare is proud to offer independent living, assisted living, memory care, home health, and short-term stay services for seniors through our extensive in-home health network (also how residents receive COVID-19 vaccinations).

Of the variety of services offered through the Edgewood Health Network, outpatient therapy is one of the most relevant for addressing their fear of losing independence. Let’s explain why.

How Outpatient Therapy Enhances Senior Autonomy

Outpatient therapy is often associated with rehabilitating pain or weakness in a specific area of the body. This is still true, but the philosophy in all types of treatment has evolved to look at the roles people play in their lives and how they see themselves as valuable, Kostelecky explains.

Our therapists work with every resident to establish this value or purpose. From there, they create an individualized treatment plan that ensures this purpose is honored. Usually, this means modifying activities that focus on the person’s strengths while accommodating areas that need improvement, Kostelecky says.

“We need to figure out what’s meaningful,” she adds. “Many seniors fear we will have them do something out of their comfort zone, like going to the gym when they don’t work out. Instead, we ask them about what they want to do and marry that to their activity level, leading to optimum independence.”Living in a supportive environment where residents interact with therapists and other health practitioners daily, while wearing masks and following social distancing guidelines, provides further peace of mind for seniors and their families, Lougheed says.

“If you are part of a community that encourages you to thrive, you can channel a passion or skill you had when you were younger and find a way to do that task in the community in a modified way,” he says. “The goal is not just for seniors to get by, but to thrive in the later years of their lives.”

Contact our team today to learn more about outpatient therapy options through Edgewood Healthcare or our mitigated move-in process during COVID-19!

“There’s something for everybody”: Resident Harold Weidler’s journey to Edgewood Healthcare

 

When Harold Weidler stepped into the Edgewood Healthcare community in Minot years ago to explore memory care options for his wife, Lois, he didn’t know he’d later become a resident.

Despite being in his 80s then, the farmer was still active on his homestead near Minot – even if his days consisted more of “ice cream meetings” with loved ones than farming duties. Harold was content with his life and didn’t think a move was necessary.

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However, after Lois passed away three years ago, Harold’s health changed. He experienced several falls in his home due to knee pain, and his family began to think about options that would help him gain back physical strength and allow him to continue living independently.As the Regional Vice President of CaringEdge, Edgewood’s Health Services division, in North Dakota and Minnesota, Harold’s grandson Brendan Weidler became a go-to resource for his family. He thought Harold would be a good candidate for Edgewood’s Short-Term Stay service, as he could receive physical therapy with Edgewood’s in-home providers without moving in permanently.

Brendan and his family agreed to propose the option to Harold, but they wanted to ensure the conversation came from a place of love without putting pressure on him. It was, after all, his decision.

Brendan approached his grandfather with a proposal of eight weeks in Edgewood’s Short-Term Stay program. To this day, over a year later, Brendan remembers feeling “the most nervous I’ve ever felt talking to my grandpa,” he recalls.

“I didn’t want to push the idea to live at Edgewood, especially since I was an employee,” Brendan says. “But I had seen some of the success stories that we’ve had with other people with similar experiences. I saw an opportunity and approached it from more of an informational aspect to see if he wanted to give it a shot.”

That was on a Thursday back in October 2018. Harold moved in the following Monday.

“Brendan was the one that got me to come. He’s always picking on me quite a bit,” the 91-year-old quips with a twinkle in his eye.

Small Steps, Great Progress

Harold showed progress After working with Edgewood’s physical and occupational therapists for a couple of months. A lack of confidence, largely attributed to fear of his knee giving out, was now replaced by Harold walking on his own all the way across the building with less pain and more stability. As his endurance improved, it reinvigorated his confidence and sense of independence.“The staff had to buy new tennis shoes to keep up with him,” Brendan laughs.Once he finished outpatient therapy a few months later – equipped with a new knee brace – Harold was cleared to return to his farmstead. However, after getting to know the Edgewood staff and residents and participating in the many activities going on in the community, he felt like he was already home.“He came to my office one day and said, ‘Well, they’re transitioning me out of outpatient therapy. You don’t think they’re going to kick me out, do ya?’” Brendan recalls as Harold chuckles next to him. “I told him he could stay as long as he wanted.”From that day forward, Harold was a permanent resident at Edgewood in Minot, and it was “just like home as far as I was concerned,” he says.“It’s a great place to be. When you’ve got something hurting, they’ll help you. And you meet a lot of friends,” Harold adds. “Every time you walk out (into the common areas), you’ve got to say hi to everybody.”

“He’s always running into people he didn’t know lived here (in the Minot Edgewood community) that he knew earlier in life, too,” Brendan adds. “Every time I see him, he has a smile on his face and seems to get along with the residents and staff.”

“Something for Everybody”

Harold continues to advocate for Edgewood Healthcare and encourages fellow seniors who are experiencing a healthcare story like his to look into their options and get the help they need.

“It’s all about your attitude,” he says. “Don’t be afraid, and come on in. There’s something for everybody.”

To explore home and healthcare options at an Edgewood Healthcare location near you, visit our Find Community page or contact us today to learn more.

Please note: Photos and interviews in this story were taken and conducted before COVID-19. Edgewood Healthcare still has visitation restrictions in place to keep our residents safe. Visit our Find Community page to learn the specific precautions in the community near you.

Five Benefits of Outpatient Therapy

Physical therapist helping senior woman lift a weight.

 

The Differing Therapies

Therapy can quite literally be a lifesaver when it comes to growing older. While there are vast areas of what therapy can cover, it is typically performed at a medical facility (inpatient), in the patient’s home, or assisted living community (outpatient).

While inpatient therapy can have its own benefits – such as care for more complex rehabilitative needs, extensive oversight from nurses, more frequent sessions, and access to hospital stays – outpatient therapy has several benefits that may fit better with the needs and lifestyle of you or your loved one.

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Here are five benefits of outpatient therapy.

 

Benefits of Outpatient TherapyEliminates Travel

Having therapy in your own home, whether physical, occupational, or speech, can be a more comfortable and useful experience overall. If mobility is an issue, having highly trained staff come to you can take away the stress of traveling to and from sessions, such as getting in and out of vehicles, walking on slippery pavement, and waiting at an inpatient appointment.

Home Comfort

Having therapy in one’s own living space is also beneficial because you can get used to practicing in your environment with familiar items. For example, if there is a certain chair you prefer to sit in, you can practice getting in and out of your chair rather than one of a different style you would normally never use. This concept applies to many different types of therapies and will likely produce the best therapeutic results catered to your lifestyle.

Woman smiling while she lifts arm above her head and physical therapist holds down shoulders.

Availability

Another consideration for outpatient therapy is that it typically offers a more flexible schedule. Traditional inpatient therapy is usually performed by appointment during weekday business hours. If you or your loved one are looking for something that is more flexible with your hours, outpatient therapy could better cater to your schedule.

Senior woman pulls on therapy band while physical therapist smiles.

The Edgewood Advantage

Preventative Measure

Along with all the general benefits of outpatient therapy, a considerable advantage of outpatient therapy at Edgewood is the emphasis on preventative care. Our therapists are skilled at evaluating and diagnosing potential problems before they lead to more serious injuries or conditions, proactively offering solutions to help avoid future life-changing events, such as falls.

Vast Services

Regardless of how acute, chronic, typical, or unique the condition is, our goal is to significantly improve our residents’ lives through our therapeutic services and care. While we offer physical, occupational, and speech therapies, the list of conditions we treat is extensive, and we will do whatever is necessary to help you achieve the best quality of life.

Living Your Best Life

Although therapy can be the answer to many conditions, it’s important that the environment you’re in is suited to helping you achieve optimal health and comfort. Selecting independent living and assisted living communities or receiving home health may be a huge benefit in remedying current concerns, as they are all specifically designed to aid in the challenges that come with being a senior. 

If you are not in need of therapy and are looking for ways to stay on the same track, there are simple habits you can form that can prevent many conditions and allow you to thrive physically and mentally throughout the years.

Want to learn more about our outpatient therapy programs, home health, or senior communities? Please don’t hesitate to visit us here or call 701.738.2000.

Five senior women play game outside.