Geriatric Psychiatry Services

A multidisciplinary team of geriatric psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and recreational and occupational therapists safely oversee the care of geriatric patients, who may be a danger to themselves or others, in our acute and sub-acute inpatient units. Each patient's individualized treatment plan includes group, family, recreational, and occupational skills groups. Discharge planning begins on admission and establishes an effective treatment plan and support after discharge from the Medical Center. Long term care services are also available at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center should the need present itself. For more information, contact the Access Center for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services at 1.800.730.2762.

ECT for the Geriatric Population

Bergen New Bridge Medical Center has one of the few geropsychiatry units in the state. This expertise now includes ECT. The use of ECT in elderly patients, those 65 and older, is becoming an increasingly valuable clinical option when other treatment options, such as medication and psychotherapy have failed. Doctors recommend it for severe, treatment-resistant depression and other mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. It also may be used in life-threatening circumstances, such as when a patient is unable to move or respond to the outside world (catatonia), is suicidal, or is malnourished and neglecting self-care due to severe depression. BNBMC provides inpatient maintenance ECT treatment.

For more information,