Wonderful Solution

Gerri Ver Ploeg and her three grown daughters had a big decision to make a few months ago. Gerri had fallen in her home and had surgery by Dr. Han, an orthopedic hand surgeon who practices at Pella Regional. While the surgery and recovery were successful, Gerri lives alone at this point in her life, and there were concerns about her being alone at night. 

The option of respite care at Hilltop Manor was made available to Gerri and her family. The service provides patients with short term support and supervision after discharge from hospital.

“The problem isn’t just breaking your bones. When you fall down, you really lose confidence in yourself,” said Gerri.

Gerri remembers seeing the relief on her daughter’s faces when they got back from visiting Hilltop and talking with staff. “This was a wonderful solution for me,” said Gerri. “I was relieved I could take care of this. When you are still a little weak and not sure of yourself after surgery, you are just an accident waiting to happen.”

Services for Respite Care patients include the same supportive services as offered to all permanent Hilltop Manor residents. These services include medication management and administration, bathing and personal care assistance when necessary, and full meal, laundry and housekeeping services.

“The room was nice and everyone was so kind. The residents were friendly and welcoming; I got along beautifully. The food was wonderful. They helped me with my bath and there was a button to push if I needed any other help,” said Gerri. “It was also nice that the therapists came right there to Hilltop for sessions.”

Gerri still goes to physical and occupational therapy at Pella Regional on an outpatient basis. “I have exercises I do at home all the time,” said Gerri as she demonstrates the movements. “It takes me awhile, but I’m getting pretty good. It’s really helping. I’m walking much better now.”

Learn more about Hilltop Manor at Pella Regional.