When should someone start the conversation about long-term or short-term care for an aging loved one? 

I would suggest that when someone sees their loved one is beginning to age and decline, to begin touring facilities and visiting the business office, so that you have a better idea of how the system works. 

How does Superior help a person who needs short-term, rehabilitative care? 

Superior Health & Rehab, when notified that someone needs rehabilitation, begins an assessment of the patient prior to admission to be certain that all needs can be met. When the patient is admitted to the facility, the goal is immediately to try to give the patient assistance needed to be able to return to their home. The facility has an interdisciplinary approach to patient services, which involves nursing, therapy, dietary, and the physician. 

Many fear losing independence and connection when moving into a facility for long-term care. How does Superior address those fears? 

Superior has a home-like atmosphere where the community and visitors are welcome. Superior Health & Rehab has a state-recognized activity and social program that is utilized to engage the patient in various opportunities of interest. 

What are some of the amenities at Superior Health & Rehab? 

Our facility is professionally designed and decorated to give the patient a comfortable experience. We offer 96 private rooms with a few semi-private and private suites in a two-story setting. Each room offers luxury amenities, including personal showers, flatscreen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and much more. 

Background: Vickey Kirkemier is the administrator of Superior Health & Rehab, the newest premier-skilled and long-term care facility. She has 38 years of experience, including 34 years serving residents and families in Faulkner County. 

Education: Kirkemier has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas with a nursing license from the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton.