Our Services: Clinical Services

The Ramsay Unit

The Ramsay Unit specializes in the assessment, care and management of older patients with mental health problems.

Common problems:

Some of the mental health problems experienced by older people include:

• memory loss and confusion
• mood disorders
• anxiety disorders
• delirium

A multi-disciplinary approach to care is particularly important to this age group. The Aged Psychiatry Care Team at the Ramsay Unit includes psychiatrists specializing in Older Persons' Psychiatry, nurses, occupational therapist, social worker, and a physiotherapist. Geriatricians and other physicians are available for consultation.

The emphasis of the Ramsay Unit is on providing a caring and supportive environment. Programs are individually tailored for each person according to their needs. Clients and their families are actively involved in this process. Our treatment program includes:

• family therapy
• group therapy
• medical treatment including medications
• skill development
• sensory stimulation
• validation therapy
• music therapy and art therapy
• relaxation and exercise therapy

The Ramsay Unit offers inpatient, day patient and outpatient programs.

COMMUNITY LIAISON

The Unit's Outreach Service liaises with families, referring doctors, other professionals and community agencies to ensure the gains made by patients are sustained following discharge.

• we also have a community nursing team that visit post discharge to ensure a smooth transition from hospital to home.
• our social worker can assist with any issues in regard to accommodation and home help services, respite care and placement issues.

MAKING A REFERRAL

To be admitted potential clients will generally be over the age of 65 years.

For further details, please call (03) 9256 8322 and speak to the Intake Coordinator. Private health insurance is strongly recommended.