Brentwood, NH: The Rockingham County Long-Term Care Services Department has announced that the County Commissioners have devoted funds to make improvements to the Ernest P. Barka Assisted Living Community. Residents can expect new furniture in resident common areas, improved programming and more.
“We take great pride in our Community and the exemplary services we provide. These developments are a celebration and recognition of the residents and staff we serve. I thank the Rockingham County Commissioners and our business partners for their continued support in our future endeavors,” said Jason Smith, Senior Director of Long-Term Care Services.
Residents, families, and staff can expect to see the following changes over the coming months:
- Hiring a Healthy Living Specialist who will be dedicated to developing health and wellness programs for residents
- Purchasing new furniture for the sunroom space and other common areas
- Upgrading electronic medical records
- Implementing resident satisfaction surveys
Introducing the Healthy Living Specialist Position
The Healthy Living Specialist role is new to Rockingham County. Developed by their therapy partner, HealthPRO Heritage, the position is designed to help residents thrive. According to the National Wellness Institute, there are Six Dimensions of Wellness: emotional, occupational, physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual. This holistic model is the basis for Rockingham County’s approach to wellness. Healthy living is important at every stage in an individual’s life, but it’s especially beneficial for older adults. By addressing all dimensions of wellness, Rockingham County can help residents meet their full potential and succeed in their wellness goals.
Improving Common Areas
Rockingham County has partnered with Wellesley Design Consultants, an experienced interior design firm, to oversee the planning and design of the community’s common spaces. WDC provides dignity through design for seniors. Their solutions will transform common spaces into environments that are comfortable, inviting, and safe. In November 2022 WDC completed the design of the sunroom. Improvements included new window treatments, eye-catching artwork, updated lighting fixtures, and acoustic solutions. The new design seamlessly enhances the existing architecture and finishes in the space. The next phase of improvements will begin in March 2023. WDC and Rockingham County have developed plans to renovate the existing multipurpose room. The plans include installing new carpet, ceiling tiles, and lighting fixtures. Additionally, minor construction will increase the functionality of the space by providing more room for activities and gathering.
Upgrading Electronic Medical Records
Nursing has implemented PointClickCare, a leading electronic health record technology service. Through this partnership Rockingham County can eliminate all paper processes. The PointClickCare software will also allow the clinical team to streamline clinical documentation. Today, over 27,000 long-term care providers use PointClickCare to meet the changing needs of older adults.
Distributing Resident Satisfaction Surveys
Gathering and using effective resident and family feedback can go far in improving quality of care and services. Rockingham County invites residents to provide their feedback through satisfaction surveys through WeCare Connect. WeCare Connect has been providing surveys for senior living organizations since 2013 and has completed over 1 million surveys and counting. Surveys are completed via email, text, mobile app, or staff assisted.
About Ernest P. Barka Assisted Living Community: The Community first opened its doors in 2003 and quickly became a highly sought after home for older adults in the Seacoast area. The community is a residence that supports continued independence for when activities of daily life become too challenging. Residents receive clinical assistance as needed, all while enjoying a wide array of activities, amenities, and services.
