Highland Care Center in Jamaica, NY operates as a skilled nursing facility, providing 24-hour medical oversight by registered nurses and certified nursing assistants. Residents receive post-acute rehabilitation, wound care, IV therapy, and respiratory services, with on-site physical, occupational, and speech therapists working to restore or maintain functional abilities. The center is equipped to manage complex conditions such as diabetes, cardiac issues, and neurological disorders, and it offers pain management, hospice support, and ongoing monitoring of vital signs and lab results.
Beyond direct medical treatment, the clinical team develops individualized care plans in coordination with attending physicians, social workers, and family members. Medication administration is handled by licensed nurses, and pharmacy consulting helps minimize drug interactions. Regular assessments guide adjustments in therapy intensity, nutrition requirements, and mobility aids. The facility assists with transportation to outside specialists when required and provides education to residents and families about disease management and discharge planning.
Resident accommodations include both private and semiprivate rooms, each furnished with basic essentials such as an adjustable bed, bedside cabinet, and closet space. Many rooms offer direct or nearby access to outdoor areas where residents can get fresh air or participate in supervised activities, but not every room has the same proximity or view. Bathrooms are designed for safety with grab bars and non-slip flooring, and some rooms have in-suite facilities while others share a hallway bath; features vary from unit to unit.
Meals are prepared under the guidance of a registered dietitian who tailors menus to meet therapeutic and cultural dietary needs, including low-sodium, diabetic, and pureed options. Three daily meals plus snacks are served in a communal dining room that supports social interaction, though tray service is available for residents unable to leave their rooms. Seasonal menu rotations and consistent mealtimes help maintain nutrition and routine, and staff monitor intake to address any changes in appetite or weight.
Residents have access to a library and computer lounge that offers books, magazines, internet-enabled computers, and basic tech assistance from staff or volunteers. This space supports leisure reading, email communication with family, and small group programs such as current-events discussions or computer classes, adding cognitive engagement to the daily schedule.
