New York
Rochester's Waterview Heights nursing home closes as final residents move out
The last five residents of Waterview Heights in Rochester moved to Lilac Manor, ending a closure that began August 20 with a state-approved plan to relocate more than 160 residents.
Key facts
- 13WHAM reported on October 15 that the final five residents of Waterview Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center moved out and the facility is officially closed, Lifespan of Greater Rochester confirmed that Thursday.
- The remaining residents were transferred to Lilac Manor.
- The closure process began August 20, when the state approved a plan to relocate more than 160 residents, followed by repeated delays.
What happened
13WHAM reported on October 15 that the final five residents of Waterview Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center moved out and the facility is officially closed, Lifespan of Greater Rochester confirmed that Thursday. The remaining residents were transferred to Lilac Manor.
The closure process began August 20, when the state approved a plan to relocate more than 160 residents, followed by repeated delays. After the final transfers, Waterview Heights will surrender its operating certificate to the state Department of Health and give the department and the Ombudsman Program a final discharge list. Lifespan's CEO said, "any transition is very difficult for people."
What it means for families
Moves are hard on older adults, especially those with dementia. The weeks after a move are when families should watch most closely and speak up early.
For example: if your aunt moved to a new home this month, ask for a care plan meeting within the first few weeks, and bring her medication list and routines.
The closure took nearly two months from the state-approved plan to the last resident leaving. Lifespan of Greater Rochester's CEO said she hopes care at the new home is better and that residents find comfort in knowing people there.
Quick answers
When did Waterview Heights close?
13WHAM reported on October 15 that the final five residents of Waterview Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center moved out and the facility is officially closed, Lifespan of Greater Rochester confirmed that Thursday. The remaining residents were transferred to Lilac Manor.
What to do this week
- If your relative moved after a closure, request a care plan meeting at the new home within 2 to 3 weeks.
- Check that medications, glasses, hearing aids and dentures arrived with them.
- Contact the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program if anything is missing or concerning.
- Visit during the first week if you can, at mealtime, to see how your relative is settling in.
Sources
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