Schaffer Extended Care Center sits in a busy residential neighborhood, and you'll notice right away it's a single-story building made for comfort and easy movement, with 150 beds meant for both short-term and long-term stays, so it welcomes people who need rehab after surgery, illness, or injury, as well as those who need steady support because of age, chronic illness, or disability. The staff includes nurses and support people who are there at all hours, and there's always someone to help, no matter the level of need, with skilled nursing, memory care, assisted living, and even respite care if someone's regular caregiver needs a break, and because of their long-standing relationship with Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, you see physical, occupational, and speech therapy given in both inpatient and outpatient settings, plus respiratory therapy, post-operative recovery, and even palliative care services if someone needs comfort care.
Schaffer's approach leans on a holistic mindset, especially for folks who have neurological or heart and lung issues, and the care always aims for the right balance between medical help, patient comfort, and a warm atmosphere, making sure to blend experienced support with a touch that makes people feel at home, so the rooms, both private and semi-private, are cozy and accessible, and there's assistance for people of all backgrounds because interpretation services are in place to improve communication for those whose first language isn't English. There's a beauty parlor in the building, a concierge who helps with daily needs, and even indoor waterfalls that add a calm feel, which mixes well with the stress-free, inviting environment the facility tries to maintain.
Strong social work resources help families and residents understand what's happening, and you'll see a full calendar of recreational and therapy programs-whether it's special events, group activities, or tailored therapeutic recreation for people with varying physical abilities, and this kind of steady activity helps keep people engaged and social, not just sitting around. The care team tries to keep the atmosphere welcoming for residents and visitors alike, so you'll find the focus is really on emotional well-being too, not just physical recovery, and there's extra help for needs that aren't medical, like education, guidance, or help with insurance and social services.
The equipment for rehab is modern, and their experience shows in over 30 years of serving the community with a reputation for helping people recover their independence and return to daily routines. The building has features for both privacy and group socializing, so you'll see spaces where people gather or just relax quietly, and while no place is perfect, Schaffer tries to create a dependable, inclusive, and nurturing place geared to extended care. Medicaid's welcome for those who qualify, and the facility operates as part of Montefiore's medical village network, which brings access to even broader healthcare services when needed.