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Acute Care for Elders

The Acute Care for Elders (ACE) program was established at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC) to improve the experience of older adults during and after hospitalization. We focus on the unique care needs of older patients. 

Together, we are setting the standard for age-friendly care across the region. 

Why Luminis Health

Our team consists of RNs, LPNs, PCTs, physicians and Physical and Occupational Therapists that are experts in providing care that:

  • Preserves independence and function
  • Prevents problems related to hospitalization (falls, delirium, infections etc.)
  • Improves the transition out of the hospital

The ACE Unit’s goal is to help adults 65 and older recover from their acute illness or injury, help them maintain their strength and mobility and avoid functional loss associated with hospitalization. The ACE Unit, a 30-bed unit located on 6 South, is an area of the hospital with an integrated team that offers compassionate, expert care for older patients. There are fewer than 75 ACE Units in the country that offer this type of specialized care. 

Awards

 

Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center – a trailblazer in age-friendly care – is one of only five health systems nationwide to receive the prestigious Age-Friendly Health System Pioneer designation by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. This national recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to enhancing care for older adults through a proven, evidence-based model.

ACE Pioneer Logo

Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center and all 17 Luminis Health Primary Care Clinics have also earned the Age-Friendly Health System Level 2 – Committed to Care Excellence designation for their exceptional care of older adults.

ACE Award Logo

Resources

Luminis Health joins the growing movement of health systems dedicated to improving care for older adults through the 4Ms framework. These key topics of discussion will help patients, and their caregivers define actionable recovery goals. 

Identify the health outcome goals and care preferences for both you and your loved one(s) and discuss these with your family and your medical providers as you navigate healthcare decisions. Make sure to have conversations with your loved one, whether they are young or old, about their end-of-life priorities and decisions, and to document their advance directives. Schedule breaks from caregiving for yourself. Meet up with friends, take time for hobbies you love, and plan regular outings to give yourself a break.

Encourage safe movement and exercise for your loved one to maintain their strength and function and improve their quality of life. Make time for yourself to exercise and get some fresh air into your day. Combine cardio (walking, biking, jogging) with weight-bearing exercise (yoga, Pilates, light weights). Being physically fit will make you stronger and more resilient when it comes to caregiving.

Discuss cognitive changes you observe in the care recipient with their medical provider, as depression, agitation, delirium, and dementia should be promptly evaluated and treated. Recognize that your own mental health needs to be a priority. Create personal time in your day for yourself, confide in a trusted friend occasionally, and ask medical personnel for guidance if your caregiving responsibilities are unclear. Seek out support groups or counseling or other mental health support so you can thrive as a caregiver. 

Discuss medications for your loved one with their primary care provider, with a goal of decreasing side effects and keeping the dosing regimens as simple as possible. Utilize medication dosing charts or and/or weekly pill organizers to ensure accurate administration. Then ensure that both of you are eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of fluids, as this is just as important as taking prescriptions as ordered.

Advance Directive

Advance directives let you share your healthcare wishes in case you can’t speak for yourself. Learn how to create one and make your choices known.

Patient Family Advisors

Join Luminis Health’s Patient & Family Advisors program to lend your voice and help shape the future of care. Patients, family members, and community supporters work side by side with staff.

Caring for Caregivers

Luminis Health’s ‘Caring for Caregivers’ program offers support, educational tools, and comforting resources designed to uplift caregivers at every stage of their journey.

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