Reason for Services
What is Alice’s primary diagnosis?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
What was Alice’s profession before she retired?
Middle school teacher
Where does Alice live?
In a two-story home in a rural area
What physical skills are most impacted by Alice’s MS?
Balance, lower extremity strength, and coordination
What is a primary safety goal for Alice?
Reduce fall risk with improved balance strategies
How long has Alice been living with MS?
18 years
Why did Alice retire?
The job became too physically demanding due to her MS symptoms
What environmental challenge could increase Alice’s fall risk?
Stairs to the second floor where her bedroom is located
What recent functional change has Alice experienced?
Increased falls and difficulty with household tasks
What home management task does Alice value most?
Maintaining her independence in meal preparation
What recent issue prompted her referral to home health OT?
Increased falls and concerns about her safety at home
What hobbies did Alice enjoy before MS impacted her function?
Gardening and reading magazines.
Who are Alice’s social supports?
Two grown children who live out of state and her ex-husband Jim, who helps with home maintenance.
Why is Alice at risk for poor safety awareness?
Her confidence may cause her to overestimate her abilities
What community activity does Alice want to continue?
Reading magazines and staying informed.
What secondary condition does Alice also have?
Hypertension
Why is it important to acknowledge Alice’s teaching background in therapy?
It highlights her strong personality, independence, and desire for control.
How does Alice’s personality impact her therapy participation?
She is confident and may resist suggestions she sees as unnecessary.
How does fatigue impact Alice’s daily routine?
She may become easily exhausted, reducing her ability to complete tasks
How can energy conservation techniques help Alice?
They help her manage fatigue and maintain participation in activities
Why does Alice feel resistant to home health therapy?
She feels her doctor is “overreacting” and is confident she is managing fine.
How can Alice’s past success in education be used therapeutically?
Teaching her compensatory strategies can leverage her problem-solving skills
Why is it important to involve Alice in therapy planning?
She is more likely to engage if she feels she has control and choice
What visual skill could also be impacted by MS?
Visual tracking and focus, affecting reading and mobility
Why is emotional resilience an important focus for Alice?
Her confidence may be a protective factor, but it can also be a barrier to adapting to change