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"We see patients suffering from dementia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and other related illnesses."
-- Medical Director David Seale, MD
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The Senior Behavioral Center, formerly known as the Geriatric Center, provides an advanced level of care for older psychiatric patients at Parkwest.
The 16-bed unit is designed for comfort. It has two private rooms and seven semi-private rooms - each with a personal shower.
Amenities
The center features a dining room, day room, sitting area, piano, aquarium and aviary to give patients a comfortable, homey feeling.
Caring, qualified staff
Senior Behavioral Center's staff members are trained to evaluate and treat patients with psychiatric problems and/or dementia. Because older adults often have physical ailments too, our professionals are equally qualified to offer medical care.
We are happy to help family members and other professionals determine the best way to care for patients after they leave the hospital. We can use our experience and contacts to assist with placements.
The Senior behavioral Center staff is also qualified to give opinions on patient competence, and to provide documents needed for custody, conservatorship or other legal actions.
Happy environment
Senior Behavioral Center strives to create a friendly, supportive and natural treatment environment. We borrow heavily from the Eden Principles of Dr. William H. Thomas, which suggest providing:
"A human habitat where life revolves around close and continuing contact with plants, animals and children."
Such an environment helps patients better cope with the fear and sense of loss and isolation that a hospital stay can cause.
Our patients interact with birds and fish that make their home at the center. Dogs and cats from HABIT, a program of the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, visit for pet therapy two to three times a week.
We believe these connections with Nature, along with the staff's caring and expertise, can greatly enhance the healing process.
Referrals
Referrals to the Senior Behavioral Center at Parkwest are made by a patient's primary care physician. Admissions are voluntary or by consent of a person legally appointed as Healthcare Power of Attorney or Conservator over the patient being admitted.
Admitting physicians
Any psychiatrist with privileges at Parkwest can admit a patient to the unit. Any medical staff member of Parkwest can consult a psychiatrist.
To make a referral call the Senior Behavioral Center at 865-373-1745 and ask for the charge nurse.