About Magnolia House

Magnolia House provides 24-hour staff supervision. The Director of the facility is Deaf, and on-call 24 hours a day to ensure administrative availability. All Deaf and Hearing staff members are conversationally fluent in American Sign Language, and knowledgeable of Deaf culture. The Staff receive in-service training and educational opportunities to keep them abreast of updates regarding residential care. The facility also offers on-site psychiatric services available to those Deaf residents who may require consultation and medication.

Registered Nurses
In addition to direct-care staff, we also employ licensed Registered Nurses. The nurses are responsible for ordering and monitoring medication, and overseeing routine medical care. Nurses also conduct group education concerning health and maintenance topics, and provide one-on-one instruction when indicated. Check ups and routine medical care are coordinated through the nursing staff, and the nurses maintain direct communication with the doctors to ensure proper follow-up. A report to family members is prepared quarterly by a Registered Nurse, reflecting all current medical or psychiatric standings, as well as general information concerning their loved one's progress.

Medications
Medication administration is supervised by trained staff members and all medications are kept in a secure, locked cabinet. Since compliance with medication is documented on a daily basis, we have an accurate record to reflect the efficacy and/or concerns about any medication. Psychiatric visits are scheduled monthly, and are available in more frequent intervals, if indicated. A Registered Nurse meets with the physician or the physician's representative during each visit, and communicates information noted by either the staff, resident, or family member. A private pharmacy provides delivery services to Magnolia House on a weekly basis, and provides additional delivery, if necessary.

Recreational Therapy
The facility employs a full-time nationally-certified recreational therapist (CTRS). This individual plans, schedules and coordinates the outside recreational events. An informational monthly calendar of events is posted for the residents and staff. In addition, recreation therapy provides physical exercise with group activities that include bowling, shopping, walking and formal exercise.

Communication
Video relay services are available for all residents to communicate with their loved ones. In addition, TTYs are provided, as well as email access, so that family members can communicate directly, and privately with the resident on a more cost-efficient basis.

Room and Board
Magnolia House prides itself on being affordable, while providing exceptional care and service. This monthly fee includes all meals, laundry and housekeeping, in addition to the many services listed throughout this publication. Most residents have a private room, with cable television services.

Employment
Although employment is not required, Deaf residents who are not participating in day programs are encouraged to participate in volunteer or employment programs. Magnolia House staff coordinates with several local businesses to provide volunteer work, as well as part-time and full-time employment opportunities. Through our community efforts, several of our residents have been placed in employment positions with local businesses. This community is also home to 3 post-high school programs that have specific programs for Deaf students. State Vocational Rehabilitation Services are available to those individuals who qualify.

Schools
Some residents are under 22 years of age, and have not graduated from or completed a high school program. If a resident wishes to pursue his or her high school education, coordination with Pinellas County School District is initiated. Eligible Deaf students may be picked up by a Pinellas County bus and attend the self-contained program for Deaf students, or another individualized educational plan can be arranged by the school district. Magnolia House will assist such residents in applying for school services in Pinellas County. Transportation is available for after school activities. Magnolia House staff works closely with the teachers and participates in student planning. Staff also attend IEP meetings. For those Deaf students who cannot ride public transportation to and from school, Magnolia House can transport for this purpose at an additional cost.