Lourdes Opens New Senior Behavioral Health Program

Lourdes Health System announces the opening of its new Senior Behavioral Health Program at Lourdes Medical Center of Burlington County.

The 20-bed program utilizes a short-term treatment approach for older adults who are experiencing behavioral and/or emotional problems. These may include delusions or hallucinations, recurrent thoughts of suicide, social withdrawal, increased forgetfulness and confusion, loss of interest in hygiene, changes in sleeping patterns/insomnia, aggressive behavior/agitation, paranoia and refusal to take medications.

The aging process can complicate the diagnosis and treatment of unique mental health needs that older adults sometimes face. Lourdes’ Senior Behavioral Health Program helps older adults and their families understand and learn to manage these challenges.

Patients benefit from customized treatment plans developed by a multidisciplinary team consisting of a psychiatrist, medical physicians, social workers, nurses and occupational and recreational therapists. The program provides medical assessment and intensive psychiatric and physiological therapeutic intervention in a safe, structured and supportive environment.

Based on the patient’s needs, treatment may include:

• Assistance with coping mechanisms and problem-solving abilities

• Medication management

• Individual and group therapy

• Family therapy

• Therapeutic recreation services

• Patient/family educational groups

• Skill-building activities

Patients also have access to the comprehensive care of Lourdes specialists and hospital services, if needed.

Every aspect of program life is intended to assist patients achieve their optimal level of functioning and recovery. Patients and families are encouraged to play an active role in the treatment process. Prior to leaving the program, staff work with the patient and family to create an appropriate discharge plan and connect them with community resources.

Admissions are accepted 24 hours a day. Referrals are accepted from physicians, medical and mental health professionals, social service agencies, hospital emergency departments, family members and friends. Patients also can self-refer for care.

Lourdes Medical Center of Burlington County is located at 218A Sunset Road, in Willingboro, NJ. For more information about Lourdes’ Senior Behavioral Health Program, call 609-835-3400.