HELPING HANDS: The rehabilitation team at Princeton Care Center consists of three distinct therapy disciplines: physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Each discipline focuses on a different aspect of patient care. Shown is Carole Rotilio (above) practicing a physical therapy step-walking exercise with the help of physician assistant therapist Kasia Rebus.

Providing qualified, compassionate care, a congenial environment, and stimulation through a variety of activities and events are the priorities of Princeton Care Center.

“At Princeton Care Center, we are dedicated to the ‘Art of Living Well,’” notes the staff of the long-term and sub-acute rehabilitation facility. “Our residents enjoy dignified care in a location that encourages independence and enhances self-esteem.”

For people whose physical or mental condition make long-term care a necessity, Princeton Care Center is a positive option. Formerly the Princeton Nursing Home on Quarry Street, it reopened at 728 Bunn Drive 10 years ago, and offers skilled nursing care.

“We are an independent, family-owned business, and one of the last ‘Mom and Pop’ operations in the nursing home field,” says William Bogner, owner and director of Princeton Care Center since 1985.

High Standards

It’s a very hands-on business, adds Mr. Bogner’s son Ezra Bogner, LNHA, who is the facility’s administrator. “I grew up in the business, and we are very personally involved. One of us is always here. This is such satisfying work. I enjoy being able to help and provide for people in need. Our guiding principle is that this is the residents’ home. We want them to be comfortable and feel secure.”

The staff is acutely important in establishing that atmosphere, and ensuring that capable, qualified, and caring staff members are available at all times is a priority. As Mr. Bogner points out, “We look for people with warmth and compassion. And we do thorough background checks. We have set very high standards. This is critically important.”

Princeton Care Center is very proud of its staff at every level, adds Patricia Chiorello, Vice President of Operations. “There is real longevity with our staff. One staff member has been here for 40 years, others 30, and many for more than 10 and 15 years.

“We have registered nurses, and the social workers and aides are all licensed or certified. Nurses are on-site 24 hours a day, and residents are seen by physicians, including specialists, on the premises. Dental, podiatry, audiology, pharmaceutical specialists, and a dietician are all available.”

Long-term care includes a designated expanded area for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, whose care is overseen by specialists in that field.

Also, points out william Bogner: “Every measure is taken not to have residents go to the hospital unless absolutely necessary. We have IV therapy here, a lab for blood work and other tests, X-ray facility, and EKG. In addition, hospice services can be arranged, and residents on hospice can stay here.”

Privacy and Space

119 individuals can be accommodated in the 65,000 square foot, 3-story facility, which features spacious private and semi-private rooms, all scrupulously clean. “The double rooms are Lazy L shape,” adds Ms. Chiorello, “The beds are not side by side, so there is more of a sense of privacy and individual space.”

Other features include a centrally-situated nurse’s station for each unit, lounge/recreation room in each unit, physical therapy gym, occupational therapy suite, hair salon and barber services, and attractive dining rooms. In addition, handsomely landscaped grounds, featuring walkways and patio, encourage residents to spend time outdoors.

The decision to enter a long-term care facility is one of the most difficult a person can face, and the staff is very much aware of this, says Ms. Chiorello. “We often see families in very difficult, stressful situations. They are trying to do the best they can, but realize they need more help to care for their loved one. I am so glad when we can put it together for people, and see the residents come to their new environment and have a positive experience.”

In fact, she adds, it often becomes more positive than was hoped for. “When residents are with people of their own generation, they can share memories, experiences and stories that they will all understand and appreciate. There is socialization and stimulation.”

William Bogner adds that the double room setting is also frequently a plus. “We see people from different backgrounds in double rooms who get along and become good friends. Sometimes, I thought it might be a problem, but so often, they get along very well. It’s amazing how often it works, and is a positive arrangement.”

A variety of activities is available for the residents, and they are encouraged to participate to the extent they are able. Activities are tailored to the individual. Bingo, gardening, flower arranging, painting, exercise programs, religious services, entertainment (singers, poetry reading, sing-a-longs), movies, and library setting are all offered, as well as visits from intergenerational volunteers.

Events and Outings

Events and outings are scheduled, including a birthday party with cake and entertainment each month for all those celebrating a birthday that month. Special holiday programs, such as a Fourth of July barbecue, are planned, and residents can choose to participate in restaurant, theatre, and museum outings, among others.

Pet therapy dogs are welcome to visit residents, says Ezra Bogner, and families may also bring their own pets. “Many residents enjoy this opportunity to spend time with a friendly animal.”

Dining service is the best, adds William Bogner. “Much of our dining service is restaurant-style. Residents order from a menu with a variety of choices, and meals are served. It adds a very nice touch.”

Both long-term residents and short-term sub-acute patients (those who require specific therapy after a stroke, heart attack, injury, surgery, hip/knee replacement, etc.) participate in rehabilitation care, which includes physical, occupational, restorative, and recreational therapy, and cardiac recovery.

20 beds are available for rehab patients, and they have their own dining room. They stay for varying lengths of time depending on their situation. As Ms. Chiorello notes, “We have to be sure they will have a safe discharge to home and be able to do everything they need to do in their home environment.”

William Bogner is proud of Princeton Care Center’s commitment to the highest standards, and that the facility has been awarded a 5-Star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. “We keep our standards strong in today’s challenging world of health care. There are more and more demands on the system.

“The positive feedback we receive means so much to us. People will come and say ‘My uncle was here, my mother was here, and they had such good experiences.’ We get letters from people who say we have made a difference for them and their family. I do appreciate the positive feedback so much and knowing that we have been able to help people who need it.”

Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance are accepted by Princeton Care Center. For further information, call (609) 924-9000.

Website: www.princetoncarecenter.com.