Long‑term care director reports higher receipts, census and training; therapy agreement amended

Rockingham County long‑term care staff reported operational numbers and program updates at the July 31 commissioners meeting and obtained board approval for an amendment to a therapy‑services agreement.

Long‑term care staff told commissioners that nursing‑home census was 132 residents and assisted‑living census was 47. The director reported one staff member had tested positive for COVID‑19 and said dietary and policy updates were underway; long‑term care staff noted completion of a policy implementation phase and an upcoming staff training.

Commissioners authorized an amendment to the therapy‑services agreement with Health Care Heritage Rehab and Fitness LLC to sun‑set older fall‑management equipment and adopt a new line of devices described by staff as less expensive and more easily movable. Staff said the new device line was more portable and would cost the county less than the existing system.

The long‑term care director said the facility will host a training day on Sept. 17 offering dementia‑focused and leadership sessions; county staff and families will be able to attend. The board approved the therapy amendment by voice vote with no recorded opposition.

Why it matters: Census and staffing data inform county budgeting and operational planning for long‑term care; replacing fall‑management equipment and providing staff training aim to reduce falls and improve resident care.

Staff will proceed with the amended therapy agreement and finalize arrangements for the Sept. 17 training session.