Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE)

What is the ACE unit?

Custom-designed for seniors with acute illnesses such as pneumonia or congestive heart failure, the ACE unit strives to prevent complications while assisting patients with retaining their mobility and independence while promoting health and wellness.  Often when an older patient is bed-ridden due to illness, their muscles become weak and they find it difficult to walk, dress themselves and do other day-to-day tasks that were manageable before their illness.  The specially-trained staff in the ACE units at EMH Regional Medical Center and Amherst Hospital will not only care for their patients, but also prepare them to once again care for themselves after they are discharged from the hospital.

The atmosphere in the ACE Unit?

Patients of the ACE unit at both EMH Regional Medical Center and Amherst Hospital will experience patient and family-centered care in a home-like atmosphere.  Each room is private and features en suite bathroom.  A community room is located on the unit where patients and their families are encouraged to gather to socialize, eat or watch television.

Partnership Model of Care

The ACE unit uses a Partnership Model to create an environment that encourages patient and family involvement.  Each day, a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals - including physicians, nurses, social worker, physical and occupational therapists, a case manager, pharmacist, pastoral care and a dietician - will meet to discuss each patient's plan of care.  This includes identifying patients' discharge needs early on in their care.

How long can patients expect to remain on the ACE unit?

Patients who are placed on the ACE unit are seniors who have acute illnesses that require shorter hospital stays.  The average length of stay is three to five days, after which the patient will be able to return to their home or place of residence prior to their illness.

How do patients get placed on the ACE unit?

Patients are referred to the ACE unit by their physicians.  Your doctor will recommend the ACE unit based on your age as well as the type and severity of your illness.

Who is the Medical Director of the ACE units at EMH Regional Medical Center and Amherst Hospital?

Geriatric specialist Dr. Itri Eren, M.D. is the Medical Director at both locations.

For more information on the Acute Care for the Elderly, or "ACE" units at EMH Regional Medical Center and Amherst Hospital, please call (440) 329-7511 for Elyria and (440) 988-6227 for Amherst.