Geriatrics services offered by Saint Louis University Hospital and SLUCare physicians were ranked No. 7 among U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Hospitals,” 2001.

A hospital stay can create anxiety for anyone. For older adults, this anxiety can be multiplied because of confusion, fear of treatment or concern about losing their independence. Research shows that older adults who are hospitalized may show a decrease in their ability to function. This condition may be caused by lack of mobility, nutritional deficiencies, side effects or other factors.

The Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit, a joint service of Saint Louis University Hospital and SLUCare, offers special care for older adults. The ACE Unit helps older patients maintain their independence while helping to prevent physical and mental decline during their hospitalization.

The ACE Unit's multidisciplinary team of health care professionals focuses on various aspects of the older patient. The result may be calmer, more relaxed care for patients - and perhaps a reduction of the length of hospital stay for older adults.

If you know of an acutely ill adult age 70 or older who could benefit from our special approach to care offered at the ACE Unit, contact that person's doctor or the Saint Louis University Hospital ACE Unit today.