At St. Joseph’s Health Centre, we have always been committed to providing exceptional care to all members of our community. As the population ages, we recognize the increasing need for specialized care for our seniors, particularly in emergencies. Thanks to the remarkable generosity of The Barrett Family Foundation, we are proud to announce a significant advancement in our efforts to meet this need: the establishment of a dedicated geriatric zone within our Emergency Department.
This transformative space, the second of its kind in the GTA, is designed with the specific needs of older adults in mind. From safety features like anti-slip flooring and accessible washrooms to comfort enhancements such as calming murals and adjustable lighting, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to ensure that our elderly patients receive the highest quality care in an environment that respects their dignity and addresses their unique challenges.
The vision behind this project is rooted in the understanding that seniors often require more than just immediate medical attention when they visit the emergency department. A simple fall or health scare can uncover a complex web of underlying issues, from medication interactions to mobility challenges. Our new geriatric zone provides a comprehensive approach to senior care, addressing these complexities in a holistic manner.
Dr. Courtney Spelliscy, one of our dedicated emergency physicians, has been a driving force behind this initiative. Inspired by her own experiences with her grandmother, Dr. Spelliscy has a deep appreciation for the elderly and a passion for providing them with the best possible care. She understands that each senior’s story is vital to their treatment, and she envisions a space where their needs can be met with the utmost respect and compassion.
Nurse Melanie York, who has been with St. Joe’s since 2016, shares this vision. Having earned a master’s degree and certification in geriatrics, Nurse York has dedicated herself to improving care for seniors in our community. She has seen firsthand the gaps in care that exist for older adults in the current emergency department setup and is excited about the possibilities that this new geriatric zone will bring.
The new space will be staffed seven days a week by our Geriatric Emergency Management (GEM) Nurses, who are specially trained to care for seniors with complex health needs. These nurses will be able to provide more customized care in a supportive environment, ensuring that our elderly patients receive the attention they need when they need it most.
The Barrett Family Foundation have long been supporters of initiatives that enhance community well-being, and their contribution to this project is a testament to their dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Their generous gift represents a commitment to quality, dignity, and safety for our elderly patients.
“At The Barrett Family Foundation, we believe in supporting initiatives that create lasting change and directly benefit the community. St. Joe’s new geriatric zone is a perfect example of addressing urgent needs while building a compassionate and sustainable healthcare system for the future. We’re proud to help provide seniors in our community with the specialized care and dignity they deserve, and we hope this inspires others to continue supporting essential healthcare projects”.
– The Barret Family Foundation
This project will also strengthen St. Joe’s position as a leader in geriatric care, providing a model for other hospitals to follow. Our emergency department is one of the busiest in the GTA, and with this new geriatric zone, we will be able to offer a level of care that is unparalleled in the region. The space will also serve as a training hub for future geriatric care providers, deepening our commitment to impacting care beyond our walls as a community academic hospital.
We are deeply grateful to The Barrett Family Foundation for their generosity and vision. Their support will have a lasting impact on our community, ensuring that seniors at St. Joe’s receive the extraordinary care they deserve.
As we move forward with this project, we are reminded of the importance of community support in making such initiatives possible. The Barrett Family Foundation’s gift is a shining example of how philanthropy can drive positive change, and we hope it will inspire others to join us in our mission to provide exceptional care for all.
Together, with the support of our donors, healthcare professionals, and community members, we are building a future where every senior can feel safe, supported, and cared for at St. Joseph’s Health Centre.
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