Our Approach to Care

Rehabilitation is a vital part of what we do at Gilmerton. Many of our residents come to us following a brain injury or diagnosis of a neurological condition such as Parkinson’s, MS, or Motor Neurone Disease. Our slow stream rehabilitation model allows for progress at a pace that suits each person, helping to regain or maintain functionality and independence, even years after the initial diagnosis or injury.

Our experienced team builds tailored therapy programmes around each individual’s goals, focusing on what matters most to them. With input from physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language specialists and psychology professionals, we help residents improve confidence, rebuild skills and take positive steps forward in their everyday lives.

We provide 24-hour nursing care delivered by a team of skilled and compassionate professionals, led by our Clinical Nurse Lead Coordinator. Our nurses and carers are experienced in managing complex neurological conditions and provide medical support alongside day-to-day personal care. Each resident has an individual care plan that reflects their needs, goals and preferences, ensuring a consistent and responsive approach to their wellbeing.

Regular reviews by healthcare specialists, including neurologists and consultants in areas such as MS, epilepsy and behaviour management, help ensure each resident receives the right care at the right time. We also work closely with GPs, dietitians, speech and language therapists and mental health professionals to provide joined-up care that adapts as needs change. Most importantly, our nursing team builds meaningful relationships with residents, creating an atmosphere of trust and comfort.

We provide sensitive and dignified palliative care for residents nearing the end of life. Our team is trained in Anticipatory Care Planning through the 7 Steps to ACP framework, delivered in partnership with Edinburgh Health and Social Care. We are also supported by Marie Curie professionals, ensuring a compassionate and holistic approach to end-of-life care.

Our aim is always to support residents to remain as comfortable and in control as possible, with their choices, values and wishes respected at every stage. Families are involved in all aspects of planning and support, and we ensure that no one is left to face difficult times alone. We provide not only physical care, but also emotional support and comfort, in a calm and homely environment where loved ones are always welcome.

Functional therapy at Gilmerton focuses on helping individuals build or rebuild essential skills for everyday life. This interdisciplinary approach involves close collaboration between physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists and other specialists to assess each person’s strengths and support areas of challenge. Therapy may include developing problem-solving abilities, improving motor function or building strategies to manage cognitive changes.

Our goal is to help each resident achieve the highest level of independence possible, whether that means regaining mobility, managing daily routines more confidently, or taking part in activities they enjoy. Therapy sessions are tailored and meaningful, often incorporating hobbies, social goals and even supported work placements where appropriate. It’s about creating small steps toward big improvements in quality of life.