Bariatric Rehabilitation

      A specialized bariatric rehabilitation program offered for the obese patient at Hawthorn Health Multicare Center for Living is unique to this area and one of only a few in New York.

      The program offers a comprehensive approach to care of the obese patient.  The facility has specialized equipment for bariatric patients including electric beds, extra-wide wheelchairs, and ceiling lifts in patient rooms as well as in the rehabilitation clinic.

      The program focuses on weight loss through proper nutritional monitoring that includes portion control and a specific diet accommodating, where possible, individual food preferences.  A full-time dietician works with the patient and family to educate them about proper food selection and important dietary interventions to use when the patient returns home. 

      Bariatric patients attend physical and occupational therapy for as many as six days a week to improve their strength, ambulation, balance, ability to climb stairs, and other activities of daily living.  The goal is to help the patient become as mobile and independent as possible.