In Home Care: How Burlington, VT Seniors Stick to Their Physical Therapy Programs

To achieve long-lasting results with a physical therapy program, consistency is key. This is true whether you are doing physical therapy for a few weeks or several months.

From helping them regain their strength after a devastating fall to managing a chronic condition, physical therapy betters the lives of seniors in many ways. One of the best ways to help seniors strive during their physical therapy program is hiring in home care.

Below are five ways a caregiver can support their client during their physical therapy program.

1. Monitor their recovery
   A caregiver can help your loved one maintain a healthy balance of rest and exercise while they are in their program. For example, a caregiver can remind your loved one to hydrate, take their medication, and begin their healthy routine at a certain time. A caregiver can also look out for changes within your loved one that may be a clue of strong progress or an underlying problem.
2. Providing helpful reminders
   Whether it is getting to physical therapy appointments on time or “homework” exercises to perform at home, physical therapy patients have to remember a lot to succeed. An in home caregiver can ensure they are prepared throughout their physical therapy journey by providing important reminders.
3. Reducing the risk of hospital readmission
   Returning to the hospital can devastate your loved one’s physical therapy progress. At Visiting Angels of Vermont, we offer a program specifically designed to prevent hospital readmission: Ready-Set-Go Home program. For example, the caregiver can help your loved one follow your doctor’s recommendations at home, transport them to follow-up appointments, and schedule deliveries of medical equipment.
4. Preventing falls
   Falling can lead to a serious injury, derailing any physical therapy progress. At Visiting Angels of Vermont, we offer a fall prevention assessment with each home care plan we give our clients. A caregiver can help your family identify any risk factors for falls throughout the home and ensure its safety. If the risk is minimized within the home, your loved one can feel more confident with their mobility as they navigate their beloved home.
5. Offering encouragement
   An in-home caregiver can inspire your loved one to progress during their physical therapy program. Although physical therapy can be challenging at times, having a solid support system can give your loved one the best chance at success.

 Call Visiting Angels of Vermont at 802-862-8777 to learn more about our in home care and how we can help your loved one feel safe and comfortable in their own home.