This time of year is meant to be merry. To help keep the focus on food, fun, family and safety, Allison Merrill, director of rehabilitation with Powerback, recently led an educational presentation, "Home for the Holidays at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill." Residents learned valuable tips on wellness, home safety and mobility, all designed to help them enjoy the holidays when celebrating with family and friends outside of Masonic Village.
Topics discussed included:
- How to use mobility equipment (walker, cane, wheelchair, rollator, etc.) to manage entryways, stairs and bathrooms at someone's home or at a restaurant;
- The importance of carrying medication on your person, including an updated list of medications, doses and doctor's names in case of emergency;
- How to arrange for transportation to an airport gate or train station platform and having a family member schedule a Rideshare for you if you're traveling locally;
- The importance of nourishment and hydration, i.e. being mindful of high carbohydrate or sugary foods that could increase blood pressure or exacerbate diabetes.
"We want you to have a safe and healthy holiday if you're away from Masonic Village," Allison said. "The most important thing is to enjoy your time with the people who are important to you."
Powerback's expert therapists offer individualized programs when outpatient physical, occupational, speech and respiratory therapy is needed. Ten therapists work with residents from all levels of care at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. A therapy gym, located on the second floor, is available for residents' use. Therapists can also visit retirement living patients in their apartment.
"We have equipment and different modalities like e- stim or ultrasound treatment for therapy," Allison said. "We also have a new program that focuses on respiratory support, building endurance and breath support for speech."
A number of residents at Lafayette Hill have Parkinson's disease, some form of dementia or recently had a stroke, Allison said, so it's important for therapists to evaluate someone who falls, for example, to determine if they require certain equipment, such as a walker or shower chair.
Allison is hoping to start a neurological disorder support group for residents next year that will meet monthly at Masonic Village.
"We want to combine an exercise activity and support education for residents, all in one session," she said.
'Tis the season to be jolly and safe!
The therapy gym is located on the second floor of the health care area at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. Contact ext. 61255 to reach the therapy department.
