Huntington's Disease Program

We are uniquely qualified to care for those who have the movement, behavioral and cognitive disorders associated with Huntington’s Disease (HD). Our team of healthcare providers is specially trained to care for HD patients, offering an interdisciplinary approach to treatment.

We aggressively address the challenges of HD including:

• weight loss
• swallowing disorders
• loss of function/falls
• depression

Managing Advancing Symptoms

Through our program, we manage the advancing symptoms of the movement disorder and accommodate the deficits of the cognitive disorder by adapting the environment and establishing routines. Particular attention is given to the emotional disorders, primarily depression, that runs throughout the course of HD.

Adaptive and Assistive Equipment

Our nursing, dietary, rehabilitation and maintenance departments work together to ensure that HD residents receive the specialized equipment they need including customized beds, individually designed wheelchairs and seating systems, and assistive devices. We offer a full menu of Pasticcio cuisine for residents whose impaired swallowing requires a modified-texture diet.

Program Structure

We offer a wealth of age-appropriate activities for residents and a structured routine each day consisting of classes, supervised periods and meals, including:

• swimming
• horseback riding
• dining out
• weekly shopping
• going to the movies
• hiking/snowshoeing
• age-appropriate workouts in the onsite gym
• yoga and relaxation exercises

A typical day begins with breakfast followed by a morning gathering where current events are reviewed and group projects and outings are planned. A period of exercise follows. After lunch, there is a class that covers a wide range of interests. Additionally, we offer daily “Snack Club” and “Nite-Time Nosh,” key activities to address the ongoing challenge of weight loss.

Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy

Our rehabilitation therapists work closely with caregivers to help our HD residents maintain independence in speech, communication skills and eating. We closely monitor residents for swallowing difficulties and begin appropriate rehabilitation therapy and exercises.

Because physical mobility can be affected by HD, we offer physical therapy interventions to help minimize frustration and treat the impaired balance which can often be a symptom of HD.

Counseling, Social Services and Family Support

• Individual and group counseling is available from licensed clinical social workers
• Staff helps family members cope with unique needs and challenges associated with HD, working with residents, spouses and children and offering referrals for genetic counseling and predictive testing
• Access to HD-related resources across the country, including the latest information on scientific discoveries leading to a cure

Additional Resources