Adaptive Equipment
This can be used to help pick things up off the floor, help with getting pants on, and limiting the need to over reach for items.
Long handled reacher / grabber
This common trip hazard is found on floors throughout the home. It can catch your toes, cane, or walker causing you to fall
Throw rug
What causes parking lots to be common fall risk area?
Uneven surfaces, potholes, navigating cars and people (distracting environment), sometimes you have to walk longer than anticipated.
What is recommended to do once discharged from Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital?
Follow up with your primary care provider
True of False: Once you leave encompass, your care is over.
False. Often times, patients receive home health therapy or are able to continue their therapy at a different type of facility.
This tool is used in the shower to assist with washing legs, feet, or back. It can be especially helpful if you are unable to bend forwards, raise arms above head, or twist your body.
Long handled sponge
Let there be light! These should be placed in bathrooms, hallways, and by stairs to help you see possible obstacles in your walking path during the night.
Night lights
What is something to consider when going out to eat if you're having trouble getting up from lower surfaces?
Chair height, chair type (seat, bar stool, booth)
This should be continued even once you're home to maintain strength and mobility.
Assigned home exercise program
True or False: Occupational therapy will help me find a job.
False:
These help reduce the effect of tremors while eating and reduce food spillage during meals.
Weighted utensils
This is something that should be routinely checked and tightened as needed to reduce the risks of falling in the bathroom.
Toilet seat
These are available at most supermarkets to make shopping easier if you have trouble walking or going long distances.
Electric carts
Before you return home, collaborate with your therapy team to discuss these items as we prepare for your safe discharge.
Adaptive equipment needs i.e, walker, rollator, cane, grab bars, shower chair etc...
True or False: Pain can only be managed with pharmaceutical remedies.
False: Ice/heat, aromatherapy, movement therapy, stretching, meaningful tasks, herbal
List 3 examples on how a dressing stick can be used during every day life.
Threading legs through pants, pulling shirts up over head, turning faucets on/off, opening cabinets, pulling items on shelves closer, etc...
What is "furniture walking" and why is it considered unsafe?
Furniture walking - reaching for tables, chairs to steady yourself when walking instead of using a walker/cane/rollator.
Unsafe as furniture can move, slide, or wobble leading to falls.
Why is it important to plan and prioritize your day?
Ensuring you complete the most demanding tasks first while you have the most energy and endurance. Prioritize your most important tasks first
This list should be discussed with your primary care provider upon discharging to ensure any changes or alterations are accounted for.
Current medication list
True or False: You should not report pain during your home exercise program to your therapy team. Pain is weakness leaving the body
False: you should always let your team know about new or worsening pain when completing your exercise programs.
This is worn on the hand or wrist and helps to hold items for you. It can be used to hold a toothbrush, silverware, hairbrush, etc...
Universal cuff
This can be used in the bathroom to reduce the risk of falling when showering.
non slip mat, shower bench or chair, grab bars
This is used to provide an extra hand grip when getting in and out of a vehicle.
Car assist handle
When should the discharge planning begin? Why?
As early as possible.
In order to ensure the set up and facilitation of needed supports and equipment to allow for the safe transition to the next level of care.
True or False: Repetition is the key to building skill.
True