A new long-term care center for people with Huntington’s Disease and ALS was celebrated by a special mass and blessing from New York Archbishop Cardinal Timothy Dolan. ArchCare’s Center for Neurodegenerative Care is a 38-bed center that will provide patients with highly specialized, lifelong care that focuses on keeping patients closer to their families. ArchCare’s Hudson Valley center is located in Rhinebeck.
“For many of our patients, today is a joyous homecoming,” said Cardinal Dolan in a released statement. “No longer will they have to be separated from the ones they love just to access the expert, compassionate care they deserve. And their families will be able to rest comfortably knowing that they have finally found the ideal home for their loved ones among people who understand their needs and are dedicated to helping them live comfortable and fulfilling lives in an atmosphere of dignity and respect.”
ArchCare, the healthcare system of the Archdiocese of New York, has been at the forefront of care for the complex medical, psychological, and social needs of people with Huntington’s disease, a fatal genetic disorder that progressively deteriorates a person’s physical and mental health. The new Center for Neurodegenerative Care is the only specialized residential care center in the Hudson Valley and is one of only four facilities in the state designated as a Neurodegenerative Disease Center for Excellence by the New York State Department of Health.
The Ferncliff center was partially funded by a grant from the New York State Department of Health as part of a plan to provide people with neurodegenerative diseases with proper specialized care. According to the released statement, when the grant was made, it was estimated that more than 100 individuals with Huntington’s disease were receiving care in New York nursing homes that were not fully equipped to manage their conditions.
“The redesigned care center indeed creates a comfortable environment for the residents,” said Neil Doherty. “But, it is the dedicated and truly caring staff that gives comfort to the residents and their families.”
