Cardinal Nursing & Rehabilitation in South Bend, Indiana, stands out as a community dedicated to compassionate care and making a meaningful difference in the lives of residents and their families. Upon entering the community, there is a tangible sense of warmth and commitment, as the staff strives to serve as an extension of each resident’s family. The environment is designed to help individuals find answers, solutions, and peace of mind as they navigate healthcare challenges. Cardinal Nursing & Rehabilitation has been recognized for its excellence, as evident in accolades such as the ASC Communities Awarded Deficiency-Free Rating in 2025, Indy's Best Things 2024, and the Life Loop - Communities That Shine Award 2024.
Short-Term Rehabilitation at Cardinal Nursing & Rehabilitation is tailored for individuals recovering from stroke, cardiovascular issues, orthopedic surgery, or other debilitating conditions. The goal is to foster a safe and supported return home with the skills necessary for continued independence. The program is person-centered, offering a full spectrum of care that includes physical, occupational, and speech/language therapies, supported by an interdisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, therapists, social workers, and care providers. Central to this approach is the Road to Recovery program, a unique initiative where staff, the patient, and their family work together within the first 72 hours of admission to outline specific discharge goals. This collaborative process ensures a clear pathway for progress and recovery, built on proven methodologies and delivered with respect and compassion.
Wellness at Cardinal Nursing & Rehabilitation extends beyond traditional therapies, with wellness and aerobic conditioning programs designed to build strength and independence. Services also include wound care, comprehensive rehabilitation screenings, fall prevention, rehabilitation nursing, contracture management, wheelchair positioning, mobility training, and programs to improve walking ability. The care team is dedicated to understanding what motivates each individual, creating personalized care plans that are focused on enhancing quality of life.
For those requiring ongoing care, the Long-Term Care option at Cardinal Nursing & Rehabilitation is ideal for individuals facing challenges with daily tasks due to illness, injury, frailty, or other limitations. These services are provided under the supervision of an attending physician and delivered by licensed nurses, specially trained health aides, and a comprehensive interdisciplinary care team. Long-term residents benefit from a variety of therapies—physical, occupational, and speech—as well as social services and a full calendar of activities, all designed to promote maximum independence in a cheerful, home-like, secure, and soothing environment.
Understanding the needs of caregivers, the community also provides respite care. This service offers short-term accommodation and care for seniors, allowing family caregivers time to rest, travel, recover from illness, or focus on other responsibilities. Respite stays are tailored to suit each guest’s needs, ensuring safety and comfort, and can easily transition to extended stays if required. Families can feel confident knowing their loved ones are in capable hands during these temporary stays.
Cardinal Nursing & Rehabilitation also offers hospice and palliative care services focused on comfort and quality of life for those facing terminal illness. The program embraces a team approach that brings together physicians, nurses, aides, volunteers, social workers, clergy, and specialists to meet the medical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their families. Services include skilled nursing care, pain management, spiritual and bereavement counseling, pharmacy services, social support, and provision of necessary medical equipment and supplies. This holistic approach assures that both patients and their loved ones receive the compassionate care and support they need during challenging times.
The community offers a secure and welcoming environment, with thoughtfully designed spaces such as private rehab suites and accessible patios. Amenities like the community bus facilitate outings and engagement, while the skilled and caring team remains focused on every aspect of residents’ well-being. Cardinal Nursing & Rehabilitation’s dedication to individualized care, comfort, and dignity ensures that every person is supported with kindness, respect, and the highest standard of service.