ATS Blog
March 12, 2013
March 11, 2013
Every month I am presented with several nominations for the Appreciation Station, and this month was no different. However, when it came time to choose a winner, two individuals stood out and I felt that both deserved recognition. I would like to congratulate both Jodi T, PT and Theresa T, OT for being this month’s Appreciation Station Winners! Both women exhibit extreme professionalism and genuine care in their jobs.
Jodi is a full-time Physical Therapist at Martin Luther Care Center has been able to keep up with a busy work load since day one. Jodi’s Rehab Director noted of her performance, “Jodi has put in many long hours and always does her job with a smile. We never have a complaint about Jodi!”
Theresa is a full-time Occupational Therapist at Chapel View. She was quietly observed recently by a co-worker exhibiting an acute level of compassion when she attempted for a 4th time to contact a family member to update them on the care of their loved one. She did this with patience and tact. “If I had been that family member, I would have appreciated that call so greatly and the time she took to make it.” Theresa has certainly made an impression on her co-workers and patients.
Congratulations Jodi and Theresa, and thank you for your hard work!
February 28, 2013
Congratulations to Erika B. for being February’s Appreciation Station Winner! Erika is a full-time OT for us at Minnesota Veterans Home and is doing amazing things for us there. She is determined to do what is right and making a huge impact for good, always positive, and always keeping the patients’ best interests in mind. She is a great OT and brings with her heightened quality of care. We are grateful to her for all her efforts. She is a fantastic representative for Centrex Rehab.
February 28, 2013
Congratulations to Melanie T. for being January’s Appreciation Station Winner! Melanie has been employed with us for over 5 years and is a full-time SLP. She takes pride in and excels at her work. We commend her for recently taking the time and initiative to set up some important processes and organization in the Speech department at Ridges. Co-workers say Melanie goes the extra mile to look for and see to department needs, as well as carefully tending to residents’ needs. These are the type of employees we so value. Melanie is an asset to our team and a great representative for Centrex Rehab.
February 28, 2013
Congratulations to Suzanne M. for being this month’s Appreciation Station Winner! Sue is a part-time PT at Open Circle who is doing so much to make this facility a success. New to the facility as of September, she has already established herself as an asset to the facility and to all staff members around her. Staff says she is outstanding! Sue is a wonderful addition to the OC team and a great representative for Centrex! Thanks Sue for all you do! We really appreciate your hard work!
November 12, 2012
Congratulations to Pete G for being this month’s Appreciation Station Winner! Pete has gone above and beyond for the company many times in the past, and continues to do so when opportunities arise. Pete has been helping out at our new contract in Spring Valley where he has not only taken time out of his own life to help ATS by traveling to these sites, but he is also taking time to educate the new staff there as well. A colleague of Pete’s noted, “Pete did an excellent job of providing education on what to write for weekly grids and explaining the key elements needed.â€
Thanks Pete for all you do! We really appreciate your hard work!
October 8, 2012
Congratulations to Bri for being this month’s Appreciation Station Winner! Bri is a support specialist at the ATS main office and works daily on helping with administrative duties. Bri has been recognized for her professionalism, willingness to take on tasks, attention to detail and hard work. We appreciate Bri and all she does to help our offices run smoothly!
September 6, 2012
Congratulations to Breanne B. for being this month’s Appreciation Station winner! Breanne is brand new and a fantastic addition to the ATS team. She has impressed her fellow colleagues by her impeccable communication skills regarding appropriate minute utilization, as well as communicating with the SLP’s for possible evaluations when she suspects a swallow or cognitive or language deficiency. Breanne is truly a team player and we all appreciate her! Thanks Breanne!
August 13, 2012
Fall is just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean you have to hang up your swimsuits just yet. Augustana Therapy Services will be holding a six week session Aquatic Class starting September 17th. The class provides an aerobic workout for all ages and skill levels but is mainly designed for people with arthritic issues. Our Aquatics classes are supported by the Arthritis Foundation and all sessions are instructed by licensed therapists.
You can sign up for a Monday / Wednesday class from 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm;
or sign up for a Tuesday / Thursday class from 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm.
Register today: (952) 236-2549
aquatictherapy@augustanacare.org
14650 Garrett Avenue, Apple Valley, MN 55124
August 2, 2012
Congratulations to Deb E for being the Appreciation Station winner for July! Deb is always willing to fill the staffing needs of facilities when needed. She is known for having a great attitude, being very reliable, and finding opportunities to go the extra mile. Recently Deb worked a long Saturday and a manager took note of her upbeat, positive attitude: “I saw Deb at the end of the day and she still had a sense of humor!â€
Thank you Deb for your positive attitude even on long weekend treatments. We appreciate you!
July 10, 2012
Congratulations to Kristi for being the Appreciation Station winner for June! Kristi is always willing to help out where needed as proven most recently when she covered 7 evaluations between two sites on a Saturday. We really appreciate you going the extra mile, and we know the patients appreciate it as well! Keep up the great work!
June 15, 2012
Feeling tired, achy, or a little blue? Studies show that massage therapy can benefit the aches and pains of everyday living, improve sleeping habits, and even decrease depression and anxiety symptoms.
Augustana Therapy Services provides a comprehensive massage therapy program that accommodates residents at seven different locations across the Metro area. At only a dollar a minute, getting a massage has never been so easy and affordable. This service is not limited to only residents. Visitors and Staff are able to indulge in weekly massages that can improve their health and mood. Simply sign up for a time slot on our sign-up sheets located at each facility, and let your tension melt away into relaxation as our skilled massage therapists work their magic and provide the highest quality of massage.
For locations and details, please contact Bri Dixon at 612-219-3145.
June 1, 2012
Congratulations to Dan for being the May Appreciation Station Winner! Dan is a great asset to ATS. He is always willing to go the extra mile and knows the value of team work. Dan recently received recognition from Nathan: “A big thank you for thoroughly completing your paperwork. This makes my job easier and for all that has to check this document later. Thanks again.â€
Thank you for being an exceptional member of the ATS team. We appreciate all that you do. Congratulations Dan!
May 9, 2012
Congratulations to Joan for being the April Appreciation Station Winner! Joan has been nominated for this award because of her hard work, dedication, and great patient care. Â Most recently, Joan went above and beyond with a patient who was very close to dropping from a VH to a H. She was able to pull out 502 minutes. This happens often, but this was a particularly difficult patient and Joan was able to pull through in a clinically appropriate manner. Joan, thank you for all you do. You are appreciated!
May 7, 2012
At ATS we pride ourselves on having the newest cutting edge technology, as well as highly trained staff to operate new equipment. This puts ATS ahead of the game, and as Clinical Speech-Language Pathology Specialist Tamara Althoff knows, having an expert knowledge of new therapy techniques is key to helping people succeed on their pathway to recovery.
“That’s a lot to Swallowâ€
At ATS our Speech Pathologists evaluate and treat many different areas of impairment such as speech and language, cognition, and the ability to swallow food and liquids safely.Â
Our Speech Pathologists have participated in education and certification to provide NeuroMuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) as an adjunct to traditional dysphagia/swallow therapy and exercise. Utilizing this tool called Vital Stim ® during assessment and treatment sessions, we are able to target key muscle groups to enhance muscle function and increase strength and coordination for better swallowing. The ability to swallow safely is important to reduce aspiration risk and choking potential while consuming foods and liquids.  This treatment can be essential for those who have suffered a stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and other neurodegenerative disorders.
By:Â Tamara Althoff, M.S., CCC-SLP
ATS Clinical Speech-Language Pathology Specialist
ATS clearly sees the importance of using all available tools for our patients. Stay tuned for more posts from our Clinical Team to keep you updated and informed.
April 25, 2012
ATS is proudly announcing the new Aquatic Classes offered at the ATS Aquatic Therapy Pool in Apple Valley! Developed specifically for people with arthritis, this water exercise program has been documented to reduce arthritis pain and stiffness while keeping joints flexible and muscles strong. With specially trained staff on hand to guide you through your aquatic therapy, you can feel confident knowing that your chronic pain and stiffness will melt away in our 94° F heated pool. The ability to swim is not required, so mark your calendars for this exciting opportunity.
Six week sessions begin this Fall. Classes are offered on either Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:30 – 1:15 pm or Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 – 4:45 pm.
Register today: (952) 236-2549
aquatictherapy@augustanacare.org
14650 Garrett Avenue, Apple Valley, MN 55124
April 3, 2012
Congratulations to Katie for being the March Appreciation Station Winner! Her rehab director shared one of the many reasons why Katie is so deserving of this award: “I’m sitting in my office right now listening to you explain to a patient why it is so important to bend her knee even though it hurts. She can be a bit stubborn at times but you are doing an extremely nice job of reasoning with her and explaining the importance of what you are doing. She seems to be responding so well to your approach. Great job with your patient education.†This is what we love to see! Congratulations and keep up the great work Katie!
March 2, 2012
Congratulations to Jenna for being February’s Appreciation Station Winner! Jenna is a very caring and kind individual. She recently worked with a patient who had a stroke and was non-verbal upon admission. Due do Jenna’s work, the patient is now beginning to speak, which has been a tremendous source of joy for the family. Thanks Jenna for all you do and for never giving up on your patients. You are appreciated!
February 16, 2012
Do you have concerns about falling? Many older adults experience concerns about falling and will restrict their activities as a result. A MATTER OF BALANCE is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels.
In the class you will learn to:
- View falls as controllable
- Set goals for increasing your activity
- Make changes to reduce fall risks at home
- Exercise to increase strength and balance
The program consists of classes once a week for 8 weeks. It is open to the public and there is no cost. Sign up for our next class that starts on March 22nd in Hopkins, MN!
To sign up, or for more information please call Steph Brodegard at 612-238-5434.
January 3, 2012
Congratulations to Lindsay A. for being December’s Appreciation Station Winner! Lindsey has always gone out of her way to help meet the needs of the facility and the patients. She has great rapport with the nursing staff and the other therapists. She often volunteers to float or change her schedule to adjust to the needs of Augustana as a whole. Lindsey always comes to work with a smile on her face, words of kindness, and a positive attitude that is infectious. She has grown into her role as a leader and someone who can be depended on. Thank you Lindsey! You are appreciated!
December 17, 2011
Congratulations to Theresa T. for being November’s Appreciation Station Winner! Our Appreciation Station award is given to employees who go above and beyond expectations at work. Theresa has been nominated for this award several times because of her hard work, dedication, and great patient care. In addition to floating to other Augustana sites when needed, she has also been covering needs at another site over this last year. The patients love her and she is always willing to go the extra mile. Thank you for all you do…you are appreciated!
December 16, 2011
Helping residents stay safe and upright during the winter months can be very challenging, especially here in Minnesota. Slip and Fall risks escalate for seniors in winter, as sidewalks become coated with ice, melted snow turns floors slippery, and joints are stiffer and more painful. There are many precautions that Augustana takes to increase the safety of residents, visitors and employees in the winter months. But there are also preventative strategies that each of us can take to avoid falls and mitigate the consequences of an accident.
- Dress appropriately- Rubber or neoprene soles provide more traction than leather or plastic. And bundling up minimizes the tendency to hurry, which can lead to a stumble.
- Determine routes in advance- Try to stay on cleared and level paths when headed outdoors.
- Focus and slow down- Be aware of possible slippery patches, take smaller steps, and avoid carrying heavy or bulky packages.
- Recognize high-risk situations- Exercise particular caution when getting into and out of cars or buses, climbing outdoor steps and walking after dark.
- Use a specially adapted cane- If a walking cane is used, it should be fitted with a wide, nonslip tip during the winter months.
- Wipe shoes upon entry- Wet soles may cause an indoor accident.
- Maintain balance and muscle strength- Find exercises that help increase body awareness and balance. Some suggestions are Tai chi, low-impact strength training, and water aerobics.
Winter slip and fall accidents are serious but largely preventable. For more information on how to prevent falls, visit these websites: Avoiding Winter Falls, Don’t Let Winter Weather Bring You Down, and Preventing Falls During the Winter Months.
November 25, 2011
During the holiday season everyone gets so busy. There is shopping, gift wrapping, baking, cleaning, family gatherings, work parties and more. If you are also caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, the holidays can bring about anxiety and stress. The Mayo Clinic offers some helpful tips on how to make the holidays more enjoyable for you and your loved ones. Click here to find out more.
November 25, 2011
Employees of ATS and Augustana Care Corporation participated in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s-Twin Cities Chapter. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research.
It is estimated that there are 5.4 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, which means it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s. Researchers are looking for new treatments to alter the course of the disease and improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Thousands of people from the Twin Cities pledged and walked in this year’s fundraising event. The donations totaled more than $700,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. It was amazing to see the dedication, compassion and support. Employees of ATS are proud to have helped raise awareness and support at this year’s walk. We cannot wait to do it again next year!
September 24, 2011
September 24th marks the first day of autumn and the 4th Annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Did you know that more than 1/3 of adults 65 and older fall each year in the United States? Among older adults, falls cause over 39% of injury related deaths making them the leading cause by a very big margin. Minnesota is ranked 3rd in the nation for fall related deaths. The most effective way to reduce your risk of falls is multi-pronged approach – regular physical activity or exercise; a review your medications with your health care provider; having your vision and hearing checked; and correcting common home safety hazards. Talk with your doctor or physical therapist if you are concerned about the risk of falling for you or your family member. For more information, please visit www.mnfallsprevention.org.
• A free presentation on reducing the risk of falls will be offered at Augustana’s Minneapolis Campus, 1007 East 14th St, on Tuesday, October 25th at 1:00. Participants can learn how to recognize the risks for falls and use resources and tips to help lower the risk of falling.
• Augustana Care also offers a class called A Matter of Balance. In eight two-hour sessions, participants learn how to create safer living environments and use simple exercises to increase strength and balance. Classes are held at the Augustana Campuses around the metropolitan area and there is no cost to participants. For more information, call Stephanie Brodegard at 612-238-5434.
September 10, 2011
Our Accessible Warm Water pool at Apple Valley now offers a Certified Aquatic Program! The program is designed specifically for people with arthritis and related diseases. Specially designed exercises help participants reduce pain and improve joint mobility while supported by the water’s buoyancy and resistance.
Class outcome:
The result of pilot test demonstrated that, as a result of its recreational and social aspects, participants in an AFAP class can experience:
- Reduced level of pain
- Improved ability to function independently in day-to-day life
- Decrease in feeling of isolation and depression
Currently Apple Valley has 8 professionally trained and certified therapists who lead individuals in this water-based exercise program.
Click here to learn more about the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program:Â http://www.arthritis.org/aquatic-program.php
February 21, 2011
Access Solutions, a division of Augustana Therapy Services, Minneapolis, is a 2011 recipient of the distinguished Aging Services of Minnesota Excellence & Innovation Award. The highly competitive award is given to older adult service provider organizations for their excellence in developing new and innovative service delivery programs that benefit their residents and communities. Access Solutions was one of five organizations to receive the award at the Aging Services annual Institute conference, held in Minneapolis Feb. 9-11 for its Longfellow Aging in Place Project in the Building Design, Construction, Energy Conservation or Sustainable Green Design category.
Access Solutions helps the elderly population in the Minneapolis Longfellow neighborhood stay in their homes. The program provides services including home safety and modification assessments by a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist, project management assistance and funding for low-cost home modification projects through grants provided by the Longfellow Community Council. The program has helped dozens of Longfellow seniors assess their homes for modifications that allow them to remain in their homes safely.
Aging Services of Minnesota is the state’s largest older adult services trade association representing over 700 providers of the complete continuum of services in settings from their homes to congregate housing to assisted living to skilled care centers. Aging Services members collectively work with over 50,000 caregivers throughout the state and serve more than 100,000 seniors each year.
Each year Aging Services member organizations from throughout Minnesota submit nominations for the awards. The awards are presented during the association’s three-day annual conference in Minneapolis, the largest of its kind in the upper Midwest, which draws nearly 4,000 caregivers and organizations in older adult services settings throughout the state.
