Residents in Lake County, Florida, seeking post-hospital recovery can access specialized care at The Edgewater Health and Rehabilitation Center, a highly rated skilled nursing facility located in Mount Dora. This guide explores the primary rehabilitation locations in the region, the specific skilled nursing services provided, and the comprehensive therapy options available to support a safe return home.

Rehabilitation Center Locations in Lake County

Choosing the right location for rehabilitation is a critical decision for families and patients in Central Florida. The geography of Lake County offers several options, but the proximity to high-quality medical infrastructure and the specific type of care provided are the most important factors. Rehabilitation center is a facility that provides short-term medical care and therapy to help patients recover from illness, injury, or surgery.

The Edgewater at Waterman Village

One of the most prominent facilities in the region is The Edgewater Health and Rehabilitation Center, located in Mount Dora. This facility serves the Mount Dora, Eustis, Tavares, Leesburg, Sorrento, and broader Lake County areas. It is a ministry of Waterman Village, a not-for-profit organization that has been serving seniors since 1989. The facility is recognized for its high quality measures, holding a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for quality. Being part of a larger campus allows for integrated care, where patients can access various levels of support if their needs change.

Regional Accessibility and Proximity

For those living in the northern parts of Lake County, such as Tavares or Umatilla, The Edgewater provides a central hub for care. The facility is located near major transportation routes, making it accessible for family visits. Additionally, the campus is situated in Mount Dora, a town known for its vibrant community and cultural activities. This environment can be beneficial for patient morale during the recovery process. Families should consider the distance from their home to the facility, as regular visits are a significant part of the rehabilitation journey.

Not-For-Profit Operational Model

The operational structure of a facility often influences the quality of care. Waterman Village operates as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. This means that the facility is not driven by shareholder profits but by a mission to help residents live their best lives. The Edgewater has never been bought or sold, ensuring stability in leadership and staff. Many staff members have been with the facility for many years, which contributes to a consistent and compassionate care environment. This stability is a key differentiator for families seeking reliable post-hospital care.

Skilled Nursing Services and Care

Skilled nursing care is the backbone of any rehabilitation center. It involves the provision of medical services by licensed nurses and other healthcare professionals. Skilled nursing is a level of care that requires the expertise of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse to administer treatments, monitor conditions, and manage medications.

Short-Term Rehabilitation

The primary function of The Edgewater is to provide short-term rehabilitation following a hospital stay. Patients are typically discharged from the hospital when they are medically stable but still require intensive therapy and nursing care to return home safely. The facility is Medicare certified, which means it accepts Medicare for eligible short-term stays. The therapy team is highly regarded, and families are encouraged to meet with the team before scheduled surgeries to understand the recovery process. This proactive approach helps set realistic expectations and ensures a smoother transition from hospital to rehabilitation.

Long-Term Nursing Care

In addition to short-term rehab, The Edgewater provides long-term nursing home care for those who require ongoing assistance. The facility offers semi-private, deluxe semi-private, and private rooms. This variety allows families to choose a room type that fits their budget and the patient's preferences. The culinary services are supervised by an executive chef and a registered dietitian, ensuring that meals are not only nutritious but also enjoyable. Proper nutrition is essential for healing and maintaining strength during rehabilitation.

Quality and Safety Standards

Quality of care is measured through various metrics, including safety, infection control, and patient outcomes. The Edgewater is among the highest overall Medicare-rated nursing homes in Central Florida. The facility adheres to strict safety protocols, including enhanced barrier precautions and face covering policies when necessary. The leadership team is on-site, ensuring that management is directly involved in daily operations. This local, hands-on approach allows for quick decision-making and a responsive care environment.

Therapy Services for Recovery

Therapy is the engine of rehabilitation. It helps patients regain strength, mobility, and independence. Waterman Village offers a comprehensive outpatient therapy clinic that serves the general public, including those who may not be residents of the campus. Therapy services are specialized treatments designed to improve physical, occupational, and speech functions after an injury or illness.

Physical Therapy (PT)

Physical therapy focuses on improving movement and reducing pain. The Waterman Village Outpatient Therapy Clinic offers one-on-one treatment sessions with individual therapists. There are no group sessions, which allows for personalized attention. The clinic features a large gym space for treatments and private treatment rooms. Therapists specialize in various areas, including cardiac rehabilitation, stroke rehabilitation, and fall prevention. These specialties are crucial for older adults who are at higher risk for falls and balance issues.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational therapy helps patients perform daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, and cooking. The clinic offers hand therapy, fine motor skills training, and memory enhancement programs. For patients with conditions like Parkinson's disease, the clinic offers the Lee Silverman BIG Training program, which is designed to improve movement and reduce the risk of falls. This specialized training is available from OT and PT certified therapists. The goal of OT is to help patients maintain their independence and quality of life.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy addresses issues with communication, swallowing, and voice. The clinic provides services for swallowing function, speaking, and voice improvement. This is particularly important for patients who have had a stroke or other conditions that affect their ability to speak or eat safely. The therapists work with patients to develop strategies that make communication and eating easier and safer. The clinic is open to the public, so individuals who are not in a rehabilitation facility can still access these services.

Facility Comparison and Features

When evaluating rehabilitation centers, it is helpful to compare key features. The table below summarizes the offerings of The Edgewater at Waterman Village and general characteristics of skilled nursing facilities in the region.

This comparison highlights the unique advantages of The Edgewater, particularly its integration with a broader senior living campus and its not-for-profit mission. Families should use this information to ask specific questions when touring facilities.

Key Takeaways

• The Edgewater Health and Rehabilitation Center is a 5-star rated facility in Mount Dora, serving all of Lake County.
• Waterman Village is a not-for-profit organization that has been operating since 1989, ensuring stability and mission-driven care.
• The facility offers both short-term rehabilitation and long-term nursing care with various room options.
• Therapy services include physical, occupational, and speech therapy, all provided in one-on-one sessions.
• The campus is integrated, allowing for a seamless transition between independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing if needs change.
• Families are encouraged to meet with the therapy team before scheduled surgeries to plan for recovery.
• The facility is Medicare certified, making it a preferred choice for post-hospital care in the region.
• Local, on-site leadership ensures that management is directly involved in daily care operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is The Edgewater Health and Rehabilitation Center located?

The Edgewater is located in Mount Dora, Florida, on the campus of Waterman Village. It serves residents from Mount Dora, Eustis, Tavares, Leesburg, Sorrento, and the broader Lake County area.

Does The Edgewater accept Medicare?

Yes, The Edgewater is Medicare certified. It is a preferred nursing home choice in Lake County for those requiring post-hospital short-term rehabilitation care.

What is the difference between short-term rehab and long-term care?

Short-term rehab is for patients recovering from a hospital stay who need intensive therapy to return home. Long-term care is for individuals who require ongoing assistance with daily activities and medical needs.

Are therapy sessions one-on-one?

Yes, the Waterman Village Outpatient Therapy Clinic provides one-on-one treatment sessions with individual therapists. There are no group sessions, ensuring personalized care.

Is Waterman Village a for-profit or not-for-profit organization?

Waterman Village is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. It was established in 1989 and operates with a mission to help residents live their best lives.

Can I visit The Edgewater before my loved one is admitted?

Yes, families are encouraged to visit the facility. You can also meet with the therapy team before a scheduled surgery to discuss the recovery process and set expectations.

What types of rooms are available at The Edgewater?

The Edgewater offers semi-private, deluxe semi-private, and private rooms. This variety allows families to choose an option that fits their needs and budget.

Does the facility have a dining program?

Yes, culinary services are supervised by an executive chef and a registered dietitian. Meals are designed to be nutritious and enjoyable, supporting the healing process.

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