My loved one is very weak and was recommended physical therapy. Do we need to go to rehab?

Physical therapy is often recommended for those at risk for falling in their home or those weakened due to sickness or other conditions. One big fall risk is if your loved one is shuffling and not picking their feet up when they walk. Physical therapy is a great way to regain strength, so it’s important to get a doctor’s order for physical therapy to build it back.  

Home health is another great option that allows you to get physical therapy in your own home, or wherever you live - even in assisted living or independent living. Depending on your plan, Medicare may cover it, but there are many variables to consider.

If you or your loved one already suffered a fall, went to the hospital and had surgery, then rehab is often the next step. It can last a couple of weeks or longer, depending on the patient’s progress and effort. After rehab, you can continue physical therapy as long as you have a doctor’s order and your Medicare plan covers it.

Topics discussed:

1. Physical therapy
2. Rehab
3. Home health
4. Fall prevention
5. Medicare

Takeaways from this episode:

1. Rehab is usually recommended after hospital visits or surgeries. Physical therapy can be part of the recovery process after rehab, or suggested if you're weakened by illness or age.
2. Home health is an option for physical therapy that meets you in your own home, whether it’s in a house, senior apartment, or assisted living community.
3. In addition to preventative physical therapy, you can reduce fall risk by removing rugs and other items that could cause you to trip.
4. Your minimum or maximum time in physical therapy all depends on insurance and whether you’re putting in the work to progress.

Have a question?

Send yours to: https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/podcast-ask-lori

Fall prevention for senior homes: https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/792ce4fd/020-a-conversation-about-fall-prevention-with-expert-jacque-archer

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