Geriatric Behavioral Health Unit

The Geriatric Behavioral Health Unit, located at CentraCare – Monticello Hospital, is the only unit of its kind in the Wright County Area. The unit provides comprehensive, 24/7, acute inpatient psychiatric and behavioral care to patients 55 years or older who require a secure environment for optimal treatment and management of complex mental health conditions.

A Safe Environment

The Geriatric Behavioral Health Unit provides a confidential and safe environment for patients to receive care. The 10-bed, locked unit is equipped with appropriate safety requirements, professionally trained staff and around-the-clock video surveillance.

We are committed to improving the quality of life for patients and families who are faced with the challenges of complex mental health conditions through supportive care in a safe and compassionate environment.

Socializing with Friends and Family

We encourage family and friends to participate in their loved one’s care and offer convenient opportunities to promote healing through socialization. For the safety of our visitors, staff and patients, please consult your loved one’s admitting packet to learn more about ways you can offer support through in-person and/or virtual visits. We are happy to assist family and friends in contacting a patient during their stay.

Common Conditions We Treat

Bipolar disorder – Extreme mood swings, from very happy to very sad
Dementia – Memory problems that make daily life hard
Depression – Feeling very sad for a long time
Schizophrenia – Seeing or hearing things that aren’t real
Suicidal ideation – Urgent thoughts of self-harm

Care & Treatment

A team of doctors, nurses and social workers collaborates to make a personal care plan that includes:

Psychiatric evaluation – Full check of mental health, including an assessment of dementia
Psychiatric care – Medications that treat behavioral health conditions
Psychotherapy – Counseling with a therapist to improve your loved one’s mood and help them overcome obstacles
Goal development – Guidance on achieving what’s important to your loved one
Family support – Education and resources

Supportive Services for the Whole Person

Your loved one may feel better thanks to music or art therapy, yoga, animal-assisted therapy and opportunities to bake and cook. These fun activities can brighten moods and provide a chance to relax and socialize.

Call 911

Seek emergency medical attention if your loved one:

Makes threats to hurt themselves or someone else
Experiences frightening hallucinations or delusions

View Emergency Room locations

Admission

Your loved one may receive care in our geriatric behavioral health unit after either of these situations:

They visit a hospital emergency department with urgent mental health symptoms, such as aggressive or dangerous behavior
A doctor makes a referral during a hospital stay

Health care teams can fax referral information to 320-200-3241.

Safe & Private Care

Our 10-bed unit is locked for safety. Rest assured; trained staff use in-person and video surveillance to monitor residents around the clock.

Visiting Hours

Family support is essential for good mental health. Loved ones are welcome to visit during these hours:

1–2 p.m.
5:30–6:30 p.m.

Check your admitting packet to learn how to best support a patient. For more information, call 763-271-2885.

Discharge Planning

When it’s time for your loved one to leave the hospital, we’ll work with your family to plan a transition to the next level of treatment. Explore CentraCare’s full range of behavioral health services in Central Minnesota.