New York City-based NYC Health + Hospitals/Coler opened a dedicated activity space for residents with behavioral health concerns and expanded its Mental Health Assistants program.
Ninety percent of the residents at the skilled nursing facility have a behavioral health diagnosis, according to a June 2 news release from the system. Eight percent of its residents receive antipsychotic medications, compared with a national average of 14% of nursing home residents.
The new activity space is designed for residents who do not participate in general therapeutic recreation activities. The facility said the space will support group activities, therapy and other engagement opportunities while maintaining safety standards for residents and staff.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Coler is an 815-bed facility on Roosevelt Island. Mental Health Assistants complete four four-hour training courses funded in part through a state Department of Health grant, according to the release.
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