Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out about activities provided for the resident?
We strive to create social programs and individualized activities to match the capabilities and needs of each resident. This also has a powerful impact in the healing process of those residents involved in some type of rehabilitation. Specific activities include: active resident councils, musical performances, current events update- reading the newspaper, singing exercises, fitness activities, stretching exercises, religious meetings, outside entertainment, games, trivia, history, and volunteer involvement. We also strongly encourage families to participate with the residents in various activities.
A monthly calendar is posted to keep residents informed of upcoming events such as birthday parties, movies, musical programs, outings, picnics, ice cream socials and other special events. We always welcome friends and families to visit and attend our special events.
What role does Social Services play at Prairie Village?
Our social service team assists both residents and their families during transitional periods. They also provide essential information, manage requests and concerns, help in care and discharge planning for each resident. They can arrange professional services for: Dental, Vision, Podiatry, Audiology, Power of Attorney, Dementia assessment, Psychosocial and Psychiatric Evaluation, and Individual therapy.
How is the laundry done? Can family members take laundry home to do?
All personal clothing is washed in an industrial washing machine at a temperature of 180-degrees. Make sure your loved ones clothing is appropriate for washing and drying in these hot temperatures. Avoid bringing clothing that requires cold or warm water, special care, or is subject to damage and fading. All clothing must be labeled. Please label the clothing with the resident’s name, NOT the room number or initials. Mark clearly and in large letters on the inside neckline or waistband. All items must be marked including socks, shoes, and other personal items.
What articles of clothing should we bring?
We recommend approximately five changes of clothing and a pair of comfortable rubber-soled shoes. All articles should be washed, clearly labeled with resident’s name and entered into the residents’ personal inventory log in the medical chart. Other personal items should be marked or engraved for identification. We advise that residents do not keep large amounts of cash within the facility. We encourage residents to manage their money through the Resident Trust Fund account for safety and security.
Is there a limit to the number of people who can visit at one time?
Although we do not have a formal policy stating visitation guidelines, we suggest using the common areas of the facility to meet with your loved one. If it is not possible to visit in one of the common areas, we suggest a limit of one to three people in a resident room at one time.
Is there any private space available to use?
You may reserve the activities lounge or small dining room for any special event.
Can we bring a family pet to the facility?
We would love for your family pet to come visit. It is a policy of the facility to have all shot vaccination records on file prior to any animal entering the building. Please keep all pets leashed at all times.
How often will a physician or health professional visit?
Physicians are required to see every resident when necessary and bimonthly. However, our nursing professionals are in constant contact with all of the physicians that visit the facility. Check with our nursing staff for further information.
Can I take my loved one home for a visit?
Residents are free to come and go with family members as they please. The facility does require the resident and family to notify us as to when and where they are going for security purposes. Please see the nurse for further details regarding home visits.
Can my loved one receive mail?
Mail is delivered to residents personally on a daily basis except when the USPS does not deliver (Sundays and holidays.)
Prairie Village Healthcare Center
Attn: ___________________ Room No. __________
1024 W. Walnut
Jacksonville, IL 62650
Consider using our Send a Greeting feature on the website. Just type the recipients name and a type your message. When it arrives in our email box we will print it and hand deliver it to your loved one.
Is smoking permitted in the facility?
For the safety and welfare of all residents and staff, Prairie Village Healthcare Center is a non-smoking facility. The facility provides designated smoking areas outdoors.
Can I bring in my loved ones favorite food?
Consistent with the provision of special diets, always consult with the nursing staff before bringing food to residents. Any food kept in the resident room must be in properly sealed containers.
Is there someone who provides haircuts?
The facility has an in-house beautician with a private beauty shop.
Will my loved ones room have a television?
You may bring your own TV, and cable is provided to all residents. Flat screen televisions are provided in each private room.
Will my loved one have telephone and internet access?
You may bring your own cell phone and at resident’s request a private line is available for an additional fee. Wireless internet is provided throughout the facility.
What kinds of activities are planned for the residents?
Prairie Village houses a very active resident council, family council, and volunteer programs.
How often will the Rehabilitation staff work with my loved one?
Our facility’s Rehabilitation Director will consult with a physician and inform each resident of his or her specifically developed therapy schedule.
Will Medicare cover my stay in the facility?
Residents must have a Medicare card that reads “Hospital Insurance”. They must also be admitted to the facility with a physician order within 30 days of a three consecutive night hospital stay. Generally, during the first 20 days of care, Medicare will pay 100%. For days 21-100, a daily co-insurance co-pay is required. Medicare does not cover skilled nursing fees over 100 days.
Who do I talk to about food preferences? Are there alternate options to each day’s menu?
Our Registered Dietitian and our Food Service Director will inquire about your loved one’s special needs with regards to food preferences. Our own food service personnel prepare all the meals. Special care is taken to serve flavorful and appetizing meals. All menus are developed by a licensed dietician according to physician specifications for each individual resident.
If a resident does not care for a particular item on the menu, inform the nurse and a substitute of equal nutritional value will be offered in accordance with any dietary restrictions.
Our Dietitian and Food Service Director also monitor nutritional status using monthly weights, daily intake records and relevant lab data. The results of these assessments are discussed at care plan conferences.
What do we do if we have personnel concerns?
Our primary concern is that your loved one feels comfortable here at Prairie Village and that their needs are being met. You should feel secure and at ease with our staff, particularly those providing direct care. If you have any concerns or praise for our staff, please feel free to contact our social services department.
What is an Ombudsman?
An Ombudsman is an advocate for residents. They are a third party person NOT employed by the facility who comes by the facility periodically to monitor the activities of the facility. They are not able to tell the facility what to do, but are able to be a voice for a resident with a concern.