Programming at the newly renovated Cushing facility gains national recognition for the innovative and broad scope of care provided to older adults.
By 1982, upgrades to the Cushing facility are complete, bringing it into alignment with current safety standards. "But of even greater significance was the startup of an adult day care program, one of the first of its kind in the country. This program was developed in cooperation with community groups and health care professionals in the area. (66).... Many innovative programs and new approaches to elder care were explored at the hospital during this period (67)...", some of which gained national recognition. Formal social rehabilitation programs, such as pet therapy, and peer support groups ("Supportive Therapy"), were introduced. Community partnerships were expanded, including a joint training program for licensed practical nurse trainees at Keefe Vocational Technical High School (67).
