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Families coping with the challenges of memory loss now have access to a center dedicated to transforming dementia and Alzheimer’s care in the community.
Elgin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, located at 373 N. Avenue C, unveiled Feb. 19 a new 28-bed Secure Memory Support Unit designed to serve individuals experiencing cognitive challenges.
Regional Director Seth Ferguson said the center removed some walls and added others to create a secure environment, complete with a day room, locked perimeter and enclosed courtyard.
“Basically, they’re able to live in a safe environment where it’s set up for them,” Ferguson said. “We’re embracing their disease process so they’re not in trouble.”
According to Ferguson, the design includes private and semi-private rooms — each with bathrooms and showers — while nurses and aides stand ready to assist residents with activities of daily living. Some residents may be prone to wandering or exit-seeking, and the unit’s layout accommodates that.
“Think about, like in elementary school, the kid who’s always running around and is redirected. Here, they’re not always going to be told to sit down or given medication. We let them wander in the safest environment possible, which allows them to retain freedom and dignity,” Ferguson added, noting that loved ones are strongly encouraged to visit. “We want families here. They’re part of our health care team. It’s kind of amazing when you put somebody in a situation where they feel safe… We actually see people rebound quite a bit. They kind of just relax and open up.”
So far, 12 individuals are already on the waitlist for the 28-bed section, which Ferguson hopes to fully open within a month, pending final state approval of safety measures.
This secured memory care facility is the only one of its kind in Elgin, according to Ferguson, meeting what he described as “a significant need” amid the region’s rapid growth.
Elgin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is operated by Wellsential Health, a nonprofit organization that reinvests profits into advancing health care careers through training and education.
“It’s twofold,” Ferguson said. “We’re helping the workforce, and helping the individuals that need our care.”
Wellsential Health partners with Dwyer Workforce Development to train future certified nursing assistants. A class of 12 CNA students is currently on site at the Elgin location as part of its mission to strengthen the local health care workforce.
“We sell peace of mind,” Ferguson said, adding that families can trust their loved ones’ safety and well-being within the secured wing. “Not everybody wants to come to a nursing home or a locked unit, but it’s something that’s needed, and we’re very capable, ready, and willing to take care of the city’s loved ones and their families.”
More details about the CNA training program can be found at dwyerworkforcedev.org.
