A Silver Spring, MD, ER aims to serve older patients

Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, MD, has one of the nation's first ERs designed to serve a population 65 and older. Each patient in the new center has an uncluttered cubicle, with a comfortable chair for a family member or visitor. Holy Cross drew on experts in lighting and audiology to make the experience as soothing as possible on aging eyes and ears. Staff members are also given training in geriatrics, including techniques for communicating with patients whose hearing may be impaired or who process information slowly but don't want to be patronized.