Boulder Park Terrace, a skilled nursing facility and sub-acute rehabilitation center in Charlevoix, has received a generous grant from the Charlevoix County Community Foundation (C3F) to purchase “It’s Never 2 Late” (IN2L), a therapeutic technology tool. IN2L is a computer system that helps individuals of all physical and cognitive abilities to connect, engage, and benefit from therapeutic activities.
“IN2L provides thousands of computer apps that enhance the lives and wellness of residents, allowing them to stay active and connected,” said Carolyn Harthy, Boulder Park Terrace Occupational Therapy Activities and Quality of Life Director. “We’re excited to learn and implement all of the ways this technology will benefit patients.”
Each year, Boulder Park Terrace provides short-term rehabilitation and long-term nursing care for more than 250 individuals. By providing customized and meaningful content that is updated monthly, IN2L helps patients to complete therapies and engages residents with dementia and cognitive decline.
“The computer is in use every day,” said Harthy. “We are using it to facilitate group activities like trivia and bingo, freeing up staff to work one-on-one with residents. It’s also helping us learn residents’ backgrounds and preferences which enhances their quality of life.”
In addition to providing activities for residents, IN2L includes educational videos and demonstrations for Boulder Park Terrace staff from dementia and therapy experts. Demonstrations have already allowed Boulder Park Terrace staff to implement skills to help residents with dementia eat and drink with dignity.
“It’s Never 2 Late is an amazing piece of technology. It’s fun. It’s therapeutic. It may be the lost connection for a patient who is struggling in their healing journey. We are grateful to McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation and their capable and caring staff for partnering with us on this grant,” said Maureen Radke, Program Officer for C3F.
Boulder Park Terrace is a 70-bed skilled eldercare nursing home and sub-acute rehabilitation center. The facility, a partnership between McLaren Northern Michigan and Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital, is ideal for patients in need of a short-stay rehabilitation or long-term nursing care.