What are skilled nursing facilities?

If you are planning to undergo a major surgery, such as a joint replacement, your doctor may have suggested that you consider a skilled nursing facility for your recovery and rehabilitation. But what exactly is a skilled nursing facility, and what are the benefits of recovering in one?  Read on to find out.  

What are skilled nursing facilities?

A skilled nursing facility is a healthcare institution that provides 24-hour care to individuals who require medical attention and rehabilitation services due to illness, injury, surgery, or disability. These facilities, sometimes called SNFs, offer specialized medical care, skilled nursing services, and rehabilitation services such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Skilled nursing facilities typically provide short-term care for patients who are recovering from acute illnesses or surgeries and need additional support before they can safely return home. They also offer long-term care for individuals with chronic medical conditions, such as dementia or Parkinson's disease, who require ongoing medical care and assistance with daily living activities.

Skilled nursing facilities are licensed and regulated by state and federal governments to ensure that they meet certain standards of care. They are staffed by licensed nurses, certified nursing assistants, therapists, and other healthcare professionals who work together to provide comprehensive care to their patients.

Benefits of skilled nursing facilities

Skilled nursing facilities provide a range of benefits for individuals who require medical care and support beyond what can be provided at home. Some of the key benefits of include:

• Medical Care

Skilled nursing facilities offer 24-hour medical care provided by licensed nurses and medical professionals. They are equipped to handle a wide range of medical conditions and offer specialized care for those with chronic illnesses or complex medical needs.

• Rehabilitation Services

SNFs often offer rehabilitation services, including physical therapy San Diego, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. These services can help individuals recover from injuries, illnesses, or surgeries and improve their overall physical function.

• Personal Care

Skilled nursing facilities also provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They can also offer medication management and other personal care services.

• Social Interaction 

Many skilled nursing facilities offer social activities and events that can help residents build relationships with others and prevent isolation.

• Nutritional Support

Skilled nursing facilities offer specialized diets and nutritional support for individuals who require it, such as those with swallowing difficulties or other medical conditions that impact their dietary needs.

• Safety and Security

SNFs are designed to provide a safe and secure environment for residents. They often have 24-hour security, emergency response systems, and staff trained in fall prevention and other safety measures.

Overall, skilled nursing facilities can provide comprehensive medical care, rehabilitation services, personal care, social interaction, and safety and security for individuals who require it.

Before choosing a skilled nursing facility, it's important to research and compare different facilities in your area. Consider factors such as the quality of care, the qualifications and experience of the staff, the availability of specialized services, and the cost of care. It's also important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider and insurance provider to ensure that your needs are met and your care is covered.

5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility in San Diego | Bella Vista Health Center

Bella Vista Health Center is a 5-star skilled nursing facility in San Diego. This is the highest rating attainable by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and  to achieve it, a skilled nursing facility must provide exceptional care that meets or exceeds national standards in three areas: health inspections, staffing, and quality measures. By choosing Bella Vista Health Center, patients and their families have peace of mind, knowing that they are receiving the best possible care.

Joint Replacement Surgery: 2 Ways to Shorten Recovery Times

Joint replacement surgeries are among the most successful and life-changing surgeries available. They eliminate chronic and excruciating pain, restore movement and activity, and reduce the risk of chronic health conditions. But as your doctor will tell you, recovery from joint replacement is no walk in the park. Joint replacement is a major surgery, and it takes time and effort to return to full activity levels. Depending on your age and health condition at the time of the surgery, the location of the affected joint, the surgical techniques used, and other factors, your recovery time could be anywhere between 12 weeks and 18 months.  You may not be in control of all these factors, but there are some things you can do before your surgery that can help shorten your recovery time.  

2 ways to shorten recovery times after joint replacement surgery

One thing about joint replacement surgery that works in your favor is that it’s usually scheduled in advance. In many cases, patients have some say over when the surgery takes place. This means you may have a little extra time to prepare in ways that will help shorten your recovery time after joint replacement surgery. 

Prepare your mind and body before surgery

The more you understand about the recovery process, the better you’ll be able to work through each stage as it comes. If you go into your surgery knowing what to expect on the other side, who will help you navigate, and how to manage when you feel overwhelmed, you’ll be able to spend your mental energy on recovery rather than on worry and stress. You can prepare your mind for recovery by:

• Educating yourself about the stages of recovery 

• Talking to others who have recovered from joint replacement surgery

• Practicing stress-relieving activities such as yoga or meditation

• Asking for help from friends and family in advance so you don’t have to worry about figuring out how to get around on your own

• Preparing some restful and enjoyable activities for your downtime (puzzles, crosswords, sketching, language podcasts, whatever you enjoy!)

Similarly, if your body is in good health going into surgery, it will be strong and able to begin the recovery process right away.  You can prepare your body for recovery from joint replacement surgery by:

• Exercising key muscles that will support your new joint (a physical therapist can help determine the best exercises for you)

• Eating healthy, well-balanced meals

• Getting sufficient rest each night

• Quitting smoking

• Cutting back on alcohol

• Losing weight to take pressure off the new joint (if recommended by your doctor)

When your body is healthy and your muscles are in good shape before surgery, it can significantly shorten your recovery time. 

Prepare your rehabilitation plan before surgery

What you do after your surgery is even more important than what you do before. If you plan certain details of your aftercare ahead of time, you may be able to shorten your recovery by months! 

The strength of your rehabilitation program after joint replacement surgery is a key factor in the success of your recovery—and how long it takes. Whether you choose inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation following joint replacement, you’ll need to participate in many hours of physical therapy and occupational therapy each week. Consistency is key, so if you choose outpatient rehab, try to arrange for rides to and from the rehabilitation center several times a week.  Planning for this prior to your surgery will save you the anxiety of trying to arrange it when you’re in pain. It can also help you avoid the temptation of skipping important therapy appointments.

If you choose an inpatient rehabilitation program, you’ll receive several hours of therapy every day, which typically results in faster recovery. Because inpatient programs also provide nutritional meals, pain management, medication management, and other services, they eliminate many of the obstacles that can get in the way of maintaining consistency with a rehabilitation program.  In other words, inpatient rehab allows patients to focus solely on their recovery. If you start planning prior to your surgery, you can do some research and visit skilled nursing rehab facilities. Then you can secure yourself a bed in a facility with a strong rehabilitation program and a welcoming environment that feels comfortable, caring, and nurturing—like Bella Vista. 

Having joint replacement surgery? Bella Vista can help you recover quickly!

At Bella Vista Health Center, we offer short- and long-term physical therapy programs as well as essential services, social opportunities, and round-the-clock care. If you or someone you love is in need of rehabilitation after joint replacement surgery, give us a call at (619) 644-1000 to schedule a tour today.

Are You Looking For a Rewarding Career In The Healthcare Industry?

Looking for a stable, fulfilling, and well-paying job?  You may want to consider a career in the healthcare industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 13% from 2021 to 2031, leading to over 2 million new job openings. This number doesn’t even account for the additional openings left by aging baby boomer healthcare professionals who are retiring out of the industry. In other words, if you’re looking for a rewarding career in the healthcare industry, now is a great time to get started.  

Benefits of working in the healthcare industry

Whether you’re changing careers or just getting started, joining the thriving healthcare industry can benefit you in many ways. Here are just a few of the benefits of working in the healthcare industry. 

1. Opportunity to make a positive impact every day

Healthcare workers get to help people every single day.  No matter what type of role you play, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that your work makes a difference in people’s lives. 

1. Available positions for all educational levels

The healthcare industry offers employment opportunities for people with high school diplomas, college degrees, and advanced medical degrees.  And no matter where you start, there are always opportunities for career advancement as well. 

1. Stimulating work environment

Many healthcare environments are fast paced, and the work tends not to be repetitive. Even when your job duties are the same, you’ll be able to work with new people and navigate new challenges. In the healthcare field, no two days are the same.

1. Career stability

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, the healthcare industry remains stable even when other sectors are not faring well. In fact, the research shows that healthcare employment often increases in severe local economic downturns.

1. Competitive pay and benefits

Jobs in healthcare are in high demand, so pay and benefits are usually competitive. Paid time off, vision care, healthcare packages, performance bonuses and other benefits help attract and retain workers and add to their job satisfaction as well. 

Nursing facility careers in San Diego at Bella Vista Health Center 

Bella Vista Health Center is a 5-star skilled nursing facility with an excellent reputation in the community. We’re committed to creating a warm, caring environment for patients, families, and each other.  If you’re looking for a rewarding job in the healthcare industry, we’re looking for you, too!  Our current openings include:

• Registered Nurse (RN)

• Restorative Nurse Assistant (RNA)

• Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)

• Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

• Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON)

• Physical Therapist

• CNA Shower Aide

• Weekend Dietary Aide (Saturday and Sunday)

• Full-time Dietary Aide

• Laundry Aide - Part-time

• Ask us about our CNA Certification Scholarship!

Bella Vista Health Center provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status or genetics. Bella Vista Health Center complies with applicable federal, states, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.

For more information, please call Patricia Lee, Staff Recruiter at (619)-644-1000 x 219 or send an email to patricia@bellavistahealth.com today! 

3 Steps to Recovering From Surgery With Short-Term Rehab

Advancements in medical technologies over the past few decades have done so much to help us live long, healthy lives. Some of these medical advancements involve surgical intervention, and while surgery is never fun, many surgeries can significantly improve our health and our quality of life. A bypass surgery, for example, is designed to improve heart function, and a joint replacement surgery is designed to help a person move without pain and stiffness. If you needed either of these surgeries, they could improve your ability to participate in the activities you love. But before you could ski the slopes, take your grandkids to Disneyland, or learn to stand up paddleboard, you’d need to recover from the surgery itself. 

For some people a hospital-to-home recovery is sufficient, but others need a little more time before they’re ready to return to independent living. For patients who require extended recovery time, skilled nursing facilities like Bella Vista Health Center offer short-term rehabilitation programs. Here’s the best way to optimize your recovery in a short-term rehab facility.

3 steps to recovering from surgery with short-term rehab

Most people find post-surgery short-term rehab extremely beneficial and comforting as well.  These comprehensive therapy programs are designed to help you build strength, restore function, and return to independence as quickly as possible. By offering round-the-clock care as well as top-notch amenities and services in a comfortable environment, these rehab facilities give patients the freedom to focus on their healing and recovery.

If you’re planning to undergo surgery, or if you know someone who is, take a look at these 3 steps to recovering from surgery with short-term rehab. 

1. Choose the right rehab program

The further in advance you start looking for a rehab facility, the better the chance you have of finding the perfect program for you. Of course, it’s not always possible to get an early start, but if you can shop around ahead of time, it’s a good idea.  Things to look for in a short-term rehab facility include:

●      A clean, comfortable environment (visit in-person if you can)

●      Doctors and therapists on staff 24-hours

●      Appropriate therapies and services for your condition

●      An interdisciplinary approach to the recovery process (communication among providers)

●      Compassionate, caring support staff

The more confident you feel about your chosen rehab facility, the more fully you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the process of your recovery.

1. Self-advocate from the beginning

No one knows more about you than you do. Only you know exactly how you feel, what you’re experiencing, what’s working for you, and what’s not. It’s important that you play an active role in your rehabilitation from the treatment planning phase all the way through to your graduation from the program. This means speaking up for yourself, asking as many questions as you need to, keeping track of details to share with your providers, and communicating your needs. Self-advocacy is an important part of ensuring a comprehensive recovery so you can navigate your way back to health and independent living.

1. Commit and see it through

One of the great benefits of recovery in a short-term rehab program is that your daily needs are taken care of, so you are free to focus on your recovery. It’s important to take advantage of this time and fully commit to the rehabilitation program. How you approach these days immediately following your surgery can have a lasting impact on your strength, stamina, mobility, and your overall health. Even if the exercises your therapists ask you to do are not enjoyable in the moment, they could pave the way for years of enjoyment ahead. The more you commit to your rehab now, the stronger you’ll get, and the sooner you can get back to doing the things you love.

Short-term rehab in San Diego | Bella Vista Health Center

At Bella Vista Health Center, we’re committed to providing the best short-term rehab program San Diego has to offer. We offer the highest quality individualized care, personal attention, and the comforts of home in our 5-Star skilled nursing facility in Lemon Grove. Our team is dedicated to empowering patients and helping them get back to independent living as quickly as possible. For more information about our short-term rehab program, give us a call at (619) 644-1000 today. 

What to Expect During an Orthopedic Evaluation

If you experience chronic pain, limited range of motion, or have difficulty walking, standing or performing everyday tasks, your general practitioner may refer you to an orthopedic doctor for an evaluation. Orthopedic doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, which, according to the World Health Organization, are the leading contributor to disability worldwide. 

The musculoskeletal system consists of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Its main purpose is to support you and help you move. Approximately 7.1 billion people worldwide suffer from some type of musculoskeletal condition, such as:

• Osteoarthritis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Gout

• Osteoporosis

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Low back pain

• Fibromyalgia

• Bone tumors

• Runners knee

• Muscular dystrophy

• And so many more

Most musculoskeletal conditions are treatable, and some can even be cured if treated early enough. Orthopedic evaluations help physicians provide their patients with the most accurate diagnoses and determine the best possible treatments for their conditions. Read on for more information about what you can expect from your orthopedic evaluation. 

What to expect during an orthopedic evaluation

The end goal of an orthopedic evaluation is an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan customized to the patient’s individual needs. To get there, however, the physician must gather as much information as possible. This information is gathered in different ways, including a discussion with you about your medical history and current symptoms, and by tests performed in the office. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

Discussion

Your medical history is an important part of your orthopedic evaluation. During this time, the doctor will ask about previous injuries you may have sustained and any medical conditions in your family history. The doctor will also want to know about your current symptoms. The more specific you can be about the severity and frequency, and any other details, the better. Be sure to bring a list of medications you’re currently taking (including dosage) and note any allergies you may have as well.  

Physical tests

Physical exams play a central role in any orthopedic assessment. In order to evaluate your condition, the doctor may:

• Inspect the skin and soft tissue around the treatment area to note any swelling, visible lumps, bruising, or unusual positioning

• Touch the area for tenderness, temperature changes, muscle bulk, and evidence of vascular trauma 

• Perform reflex tests to assess for spinal injury or neuromuscular conditions

• Activate your range of motion to evaluate your mobility

• Ask you to move, walk, bend, sit, stand, or other activity to test your strength and further evaluate your condition

Imaging tests

For serious orthopedic injuries, or if your doctor suspects that a bone or joint has been damaged from a condition such as osteoarthritis, they might order imaging tests in order to see more clearly what’s happening inside your body. Common imaging tests associated with orthopedics include X-ray, MRI, and ultrasound:

• X-ray imaging shines a small amount of electromagnetic waves through a body part to produce 2D images of your bones and joints 

• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses a strong magnetic field to create accurate 3D images of your organs, tissues, and skeletal system, allowing for a non-invasive examination of the body’s interior

• Orthopedic ultrasound imaging uses high frequency sound waves to get a clear look at abnormalities or injuries in the musculoskeletal system, such as muscle, tendon, and ligament tears. 

By performing an orthopedic evaluation, the physician can learn more about you and your symptoms, reach an accurate diagnosis, and formulate an appropriate treatment plan. 

Orthopedic rehabilitation in San Diego | Bella Vista Health Center

Treatment for many musculoskeletal conditions involves rehabilitation. If your doctor has recommended orthopedic rehab to help relieve your pain, improve your balance and coordination, or restore your function for the tasks of everyday living, we can help. Bella Vista Health Center in San Diego offers customized orthopedic rehab treatment plans by a team of caring, competent medical professionals. Our goal is to ensure patient comfort and safety in an environment that promotes health and supports healing.

What Is a Neurological Exam?

A neurological exam is an evaluation of the nervous system. Your brain, spinal cord, and nerve cells are the main components of the nervous system, which is a complex network that’s involved with everything you do and experience.  Your nervous system controls your senses, your ability to think and reason, and the voluntary and involuntary movements in your body, including your heartbeat and your breath. A neurological exam is painless, non-invasive, and adaptable to the age and capabilities of each individual. Read on for more information. 

Why do I need a neurological exam?

Your doctor may order a neurological exam if you’ve suffered a stroke or traumatic brain injury. A neurological exam is also often part of a routine physical examination, or one may be ordered if you have recently been in an accident. A neurological exam may be recommended if you are exhibiting signs of a potential nervous system disorder. Some symptoms doctors look out for include:

• Chronic or severe headaches

• Dizziness and vertigo

• Numbness or tingling

• Blurry vision

• Behavior changes

• Changes in balance or coordination

• Weakness or reduced ability to move

• Memory problems or confusion 

Not all of the symptoms above point to a neurological disorder on their own, but please don’t discount any of them. Let your doctor determine which ones hold weight. Relay as much information about your symptoms to your doctor as you can. It may help to keep a record of your symptom frequency and severity, as well as any additional information about what may have triggered your symptoms.

What is a neurological exam?

There are many ways to test neurological functioning. Your doctor will decide the best approach depending on several factors, including whether they’re testing for a potential diagnosis or performing a general wellness check. Your symptoms, your age, and your capabilities will also be considered when deciding the types of assessments used.  There are, however, some common components of a neurological exam. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect.  

Discussion of your symptoms and medical history

During your neuro exam, the doctor will ask about your medical history, medical conditions in your family, current symptoms, and any medications you’re taking. Some of the questions the doctor asks may seem unrelated to your current condition, but they are important. It can help to remember that your nervous system is involved in every other bodily system, so even things that may not seem related are. 

Neurological testing

At this time, the doctor may perform a series of assessments to test your neurological functioning. Some may be passive, and others may require your participation. The areas tested may include:

• Sensory system

• Motor skills

• Strength and muscle tone

• Hearing and speech

• Vision 

• Reflexes

• Mental awareness

• Environmental interaction

• Walking and coordination

• Language fluency and comprehension

• And so many more

Your doctor will choose the tests that best help increase understanding about your condition and what may be causing your symptoms. 

Other tests

Depending on your specific symptoms or the results of some of the above tests, your doctor may want to move forward with some additional testing. These may include: 

• Blood test 

• Genetic test

• CT scan

• MRI

• Biopsy

• Electroencephalography (EEG)

• Ultrasound imaging

• Or more

Ask your doctor if you have questions about the purpose of any exam ordered as part of your neurological evaluation.  In many cases, the more information your doctor can gather about your symptoms and your condition, the more accurate your diagnosis will be—and the more effective your treatment. At other times, certain assessments are meant to rule out or confirm a specific diagnosis. 

Neurological rehabilitation in San Diego | Bella Vista Health Center

Neurological rehabilitation is an important part of recovery from stroke or a traumatic brain injury. If your doctor has recommended neurological rehab, it’s best to start right away in order to maximize your recovery.  At Bella Vista Health Center, we offer a wide range of services to help restore your balance and coordination, strength, communication fluency, and other skills that may have been lost or damaged. Our practitioners will work collaboratively with your neurologist and other members of your healthcare team to provide you with the very best care so you can recover quickly, return to independent living, and optimize your quality of life.  

Can You Do Cardiac Therapy at Home?

The heart is one of our most essential organs. Day after day it pumps blood at an average of 72 beats per minute, providing our other organs with the oxygen and nutrients they need to keep us healthy. A healthy heart is an important component of a high quality of life. For people with heart problems, however, it requires a little more effort to maintain a healthy heart. A strong cardiac rehabilitation program makes all the difference. 

Cardiac rehabilitation is an important part of recovery following a heart attack, heart failure, or heart surgery. Cardiac therapy aids in recovery, improves quality of life, and helps to prevent future heart problems. Studies have shown, however, that many people who could benefit from cardiac rehabilitation are not able to participate because of the logistical or financial constraints of visiting a rehabilitation center multiple times per week. Fortunately, in today’s changing healthcare landscape, home-based medical care makes cardiac rehabilitation more accessible to more people. 

Yes, you can do cardiac therapy at home. Read on for more information.

What is cardiac rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program designed to optimize cardiovascular health, particularly in those who have undergone heart surgery or angioplasty, or who have suffered from a heart attack, heart failure, or heart disease.  Cardiac rehab is a structured and standardized program, with treatment plans customized to meet the needs of the individual. Designed by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals, each treatment plan involves exercises to improve the health of the cardiovascular system, education for maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, and stress-reduction counseling. A cardiac therapy treatment team may include any combination of cardiologists, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, mental health specialists, and nutritionists.  

What is home-based cardiac rehab?

Cardiac rehabilitation typically begins at the hospital and then continues at an outpatient cardiac rehab facility. But during the coronavirus pandemic, many cardiac rehabilitation programs shifted their method of care delivery, enabling heart patients to receive care and participate from home. Home-based cardiac rehabilitation provides the same structured, standardized, and evidence-based medical care and support as traditional cardiac rehab, but the patient is able to participate from home. The details of every home-based cardiac therapy program will differ depending on the technologies available to the rehab center, but here’s an example of how it can work: 

• Phone apps can be used to provide

  • Daily exercises 

  • Alerts for medication times

  • Meal plans

• Smartwatches or other connected devices can be used to

  • Monitor your vital signs 

  • Measure your activity levels

  • Record your daily steps

  • Send data to your cardiac rehab care team

• Weekly check-ins with your providers give you the opportunity to

  • Discuss your symptoms or side effects

  • Share your triumphs

  • Ask for help

  • Receive feedback about your progress

Home-based cardiac rehabilitation has the benefit of allowing you to incorporate the exercises and healthy lifestyle changes directly into your daily schedule without the need to make an extra stop at the rehab facility. It’s a game changer for many people. For those who leave the hospital but are not yet ready to return home to independent living, however, cardiac rehab in a 5-star skilled nursing facility may be a better option. 

Cardiac rehab in Lemon Grove | Bella Vista Health Center 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility

If you’re in need of cardiac rehabilitation, but you’re not quite ready to make the transition from hospital to home, Bella Vista Health Center is here for you. We offer cardiac rehabilitation in San Diego at our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility. Our highly skilled and compassionate team of physicians, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and nutritionists will work with your cardiologists and other healthcare providers to create a customized cardiac rehab program just for you. We also offer a range of amenities for short and long-term residents to help keep you comfortable and engaged while you recover. For more information or to schedule a tour, give us a call at (619) 644-1000.

Does A Stroke Always Cause Permanent Damage?

A stroke is a scary and life-changing event, whether it happens to you or someone you know.  Strokes damage the brain, which is a complex organ that controls thought, emotion, motor skills, breathing, temperature, and every process that regulates our body. Depending on the location of the damage, the stroke can affect different brain functions, such as your ability to live independently, to think clearly, or to process your emotions.  A stroke can even change your personality. But does a stroke always cause permanent damage? The simple answer is no, but in order to understand the more complex truth behind the answer, it’s important to have a basic understanding of what causes strokes and the role of stroke rehabilitation in a successful recovery.  

What causes strokes?

Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. This disruption is most often the result of a blocked or narrowed blood vessel (from a blood clot, fatty deposit, or other particles), but in rarer cases, it is the result of a ruptured blood vessel. The blockage or rupture stops the blood from reaching parts of the brain. Without the oxygen and nutrients carried by the blood, brain cells begin to die within minutes, damaging the connection between cells. This loss of connection results in impaired function, such as difficulty speaking, walking, or problem-solving. 

Does a stroke always cause permanent damage?

Not every stroke will cause permanent damage, but timing plays an important role.  The longer the blood flow is disrupted, the more severe the damage, and the lower the chances of a full recovery. Additionally, there is only a small window of opportunity after a stroke when the brain’s capacity to rewire itself is at its peak. It begins to diminish after a couple of weeks. So it’s important that the patient not only receives treatment to restore normal blood flow immediately, but also begins stroke rehabilitation as soon as possible. The sooner treatment and rehabilitation begin, the higher the likelihood of a successful stroke recovery. 

What is stroke rehabilitation? 

Stroke rehabilitation is a goal-oriented treatment program designed to help stroke survivors relearn lost skills. Stroke rehab is highly individualized because every stroke is different, depending on the severity of the damage, which part of the brain is damaged, and which functions are affected. A temporal lobe stroke, for example, may impair language comprehension in one person or difficulty with depth perception in another. A frontal lobe stroke, on the other hand, may result in severe muscle weakness, or subtle cognitive changes. Most people who suffer from stroke experience a range of symptoms. Post-stroke rehabilitation involves a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and other medical practitioners working together to help the patient to restore function and regain lost abilities. 

How does post-stroke rehab work?

Although it’s not possible to recover dead brain cells, a strong stroke rehabilitation program can help rewire the brain to restore lost function. According to the American Stroke Association, approximately 10% of stroke patients recover almost completely, and around 25% recover with minor impairments. Stroke rehab works through a process called neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize itself. 

By guiding patients through the strategic repetition of carefully chosen exercises, stroke rehabilitation specialists can help stimulate neuroplasticity so key skills and functions are rerouted through healthy brain tissue. Post-stroke physical therapy, for example, can help encourage the brain to create new pathways for motor control. Post-stroke speech therapy can help the brain make new connections for language skills. Key areas of work in a high quality stroke rehabilitation program typically include some combination of mobility, range-of-motion, motor skills, speaking, listening, writing, memory, and problem solving, depending on the individual needs of the patient. 

Stroke rehabilitation in Lemon Grove | Bella Vista Health Center

Residents in the Bella Vista stroke rehabilitation program receive a minimum of an hour and a half to two hours of therapy per day, five to six days a week. Depending on the severity of the stroke and any related complications, our stroke rehab specialists develop an individualized program focused on the areas that will help each patient become as independent as possible. For more information or to schedule a tour of our 5-star skilled nursing facility in Lemon Grove, give us a call at (619) 644-1000 today. 

Essential Gait Training Exercises For Elderly

Falls can be extremely dangerous to older adults. Although falling is not a normal part of aging, there are certain factors that can increase the risk of falls for older people. These include deteriorating eyesight as well as illnesses and physical conditions that affect strength and balance. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), of the 36 million falls by older adults that are reported each year, 3 million result in emergency room visits, and 32,000 are fatal. These are scary statistics, but the good news is that there are things you can do to decrease your risk of falling, such as keeping your home well lit and removing throw rugs or tacking down carpet edges. Gait training also helps to prevent falls, as it strengthens muscles and improves stability.   

What is gait training?

Gait training is a type of physical therapy that aims to improve strength and balance in your lower body so you can walk normally and safely. Your gait is the mechanics of your walk. It’s the cycle of repetition involving the coordinated efforts of your feet, knees and hips. Gait training is a set of exercises used to help improve or restore function to this cycle. It also involves your ability to maintain your balance and coordination as you navigate obstacles in the environment. After a stroke, injury, or surgery in the lower extremities, a physical therapist may add gait training exercises to your treatment plan in order to redevelop muscle memory and prevent future falls. Walking itself is a type of gait training, which makes it an excellent exercise for older people, but there are other essential gait training exercises as well.  

Essential gait training exercises for the elderly

Gait training isn’t something you should do on your own, particularly if you struggle with balance. It’s best to work with a physical therapist or other healthcare professional who can create a customized set of exercises designed specifically with your needs and safety in mind. There are, however, a few essential gait training exercises that many people can easily do on their own once they've been cleared by their doctor or physical therapist. These include:

Heel raises - Start in a seated position in a chair, with your feet flat on the floor. Point your toes to raise your heels. Do this 10 times. 

Increases strength in the calf muscles, helps with balance, and improves ankle mobility.

Toe raises - Start in a seated position in a chair, with your feet flat on the floor. Raise your toes off the ground while keeping your heels connected to the floor. Do this 10 times. 

Strengthens shin and ankle muscles, helps with balance, and improves ankle mobility. 

Knee to chest (or Seated march) - Start in a seated position in a chair. Raise one knee to your chest, as though you’re marching. Put it down and raise the other knee. Be sure to keep your back straight. Continue until you have raised each knee 10 times. 

Strengthens the core, hip flexors, and quadriceps. 

One-leg stand - Stand and hold onto a table, a chair, or a wall for support.  Lift one foot off the ground and hold it for a few seconds while you balance on the other leg. Try this 10 times on each leg. 

Improves balance.

Heel-toe walk - Walk next to a wall or a bar for support. Put your right foot down and then place the left in front of it, with the heel of the left foot directly lined up with the toes of the right. Then put the right foot in front, with the heel directly lined up with the toes of the left. Continue in this way for 15 feet or so. 

Improves balance and coordination. 

Step-overs / side stepping / figure eights - Place two soft objects on the floor about 3 feet apart. Step over each object several times. Be sure they’re placed at a distance where you naturally step over them with each foot.  For side stepping, lift your foot and step sideways over each obstacle several times, leading with each foot an equal number of times. For figure eights, walk around the obstacles in figure eight movements. 

Retrains the body for proper movement and lowers the risk of tripping over obstacles.

Even if the above exercises seem simple, it’s important to run them by your doctor or physical therapist before incorporating them into your daily routine. If you have suffered from a stroke, or if you have been ill or injured and have lost some mobility and strength in your lower extremities, chances are, you’ll need gait training. And when you do, Bella Vista is here to help. 

Physical therapy and rehabilitation in San Diego

Physical therapy not only improves mobility, strength, and balance to aid independence, but it can also help prevent falls in the future. At the Bella Vista Health Center Physical Therapy Department, our therapists provide specialized gait training programs to help residents recovering from stroke, joint replacement, or other conditions restore lower-limb strength and functioning in order to maximize independence and lower the risk of future falls. If you or someone you love is in need of physical therapy or occupational therapy, give us a call at (619) 644-1000 or come by to visit our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility in Lemon Grove Today. 

Benefits of Interdisciplinary Teams in Healthcare

We’ve all heard the phrase, “No man is an island.” It’s a good reminder that we’re not alone and that we need each other to thrive. Unfortunately, many people do feel alone when it comes to coordinating complex healthcare issues. Seniors, in particular, often have multiple health conditions, each of which can involve various symptoms, a couple of doctors or therapists, and an array of treatments, medications, lab tests, lab results, and a million other details that the patient not only has to keep track of but also has to relay from one practitioner to another. The stress and overwhelm can make it difficult to focus on recovery or wellness.  But if the healthcare professionals on the patient’s care team work together collaboratively and communicate effectively, it not only relieves some of the patient’s burden but it also improves their treatment outcomes. And improved care is the primary benefit of interdisciplinary teams in healthcare. 

What is an interdisciplinary team in healthcare?

An interdisciplinary team is a group of professionals all working collaboratively toward a common goal. In healthcare, specifically, the team involves health professionals working together to treat a patient’s injury or condition, which increases the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes. The members of an interdisciplinary team in healthcare are determined by the needs of the patient and their particular condition. The team can be comprised of just a few practitioners or a larger group represented by many different disciplines, including any combination of the following:

• Primary care physician

• Nurse practitioner

• Physician assistant

• Nursing partner

• Specialists

  • Pulmonologist

  • Cardiologist

  • Oncologist

  • Neurologist

  • Orthopedist

  • Other specialists 

• Physical therapist

• Occupational therapist

• Dietician

• Home caregiver

• Psychologist

• Psychiatrist

• Social worker

There are a countless number of healthcare professionals that can work as part of an interdisciplinary team, but one thing they all must have in common is the willingness to work collaboratively with other practitioners toward the optimum health and wellbeing of the patient. 

The benefits of an interdisciplinary team in healthcare

Collaborative care is particularly beneficial for older people, who tend to have many medical, functional, and psychosocial challenges that need to be addressed simultaneously. The collaborative approach interdisciplinary healthcare teams provide has proven to be most effective for senior care. Here are some of the main benefits of an interdisciplinary team in healthcare.  

Better care

Each medical professional has a different perspective, depending on their particular discipline, and each can provide valuable insight that the other practitioners may not have considered. When everyone works together, communicating efficiently and sharing information in real-time, the interdisciplinary team can create a comprehensive treatment plan based on a holistic view of the patient.  This leads to better quality care and improved outcomes.  

Reduced medical errors

Most seniors work with multiple practitioners to manage various health conditions. If each practitioner works independently, it increases the likelihood of miscommunication and risks to patient safety. This may include duplicate assessments or even adverse drug interactions. A reduction in medical errors is one of the most important benefits of interdisciplinary teams in healthcare. 

Faster treatment

Effective and efficient communication within an interdisciplinary healthcare team reduces the wait time that often stalls treatment and causes patient frustration. When referrals, test results, and other information moves efficiently through the lines of communication, patients can receive their treatment more quickly, before their condition has a chance to worsen. 

Reduce length of stay

Studies have shown that by reducing the inefficiencies, redundancies, and medical errors, hospitals that use an interdisciplinary model are able to improve surgical start times, prevent delays, and reduce the average length of patient stays. With improved care, patients recover sooner.  

Better quality of life

Improved communication, collaboration, and patient care results in a higher quality of life for patients—and a higher rate of job satisfaction for practitioners. For example, when an occupational therapist is able to create a treatment plan based on information gathered from other members of the interdisciplinary care team, they’re equipped with a broader sense of confidence to pass on to the patient. And when patients feel confident in their providers, they’re more likely to participate in their care. In the end, interdisciplinary teams provide numerous benefits for patients as well as their healthcare professionals. 

Get collaborative care at Bella Vista Health Center

If you or a loved one is looking for an interdisciplinary healthcare team in San Diego, Bella Vista Health is here for you. Our team of doctors, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dieticians, and other specialists work collaboratively to provide the highest quality treatment customized for each patient. We prioritize communication not only among practitioners but also with patients and family members, who we consider part of the care team. For more information about our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility, give us a call at (619) 644-1000 or come visit us in Lemon Grove today.