Tips from the Physical Therapist

It’s been a week since David returned home after being bedridden for 3 long months at Nuuanu Hale nursing facility. He fell on Monday and again on Wednesday. Both times the firemen came to lift him off the floor. They even rendered first aid when he gashed his right leg on the transport chair after falling off the chair.

On Thursday, a PT from Castle Adventist Health came to evaluate David. After I told her that David had fallen twice, Nia gave us a few tips on how to prevent future falls.

First, I am to bring the transport chair to his calves. When David feels the chair touching his calves, he can then sit down. This way, he won’t land on the floor.

Second, when he goes to the commode in the bathroom, he is to lean his back on the door frame. Then, he has to side step slowly to the commode and grab the bar on the wall. Then, he is to lower his pants and sit on the commode. When done, he is to grab the bar, stand and pull up his pants. Then, side step slowly towards the walker and walk to his bed.

Third, don’t cross your feet while walking or standing, as doing so will make you fall. Walk and stand with your feet wide apart.

A different PT has been assigned to help David. Her name is Katie, and she will come here twice a week for at least 6 weeks.

A nurse, an occupational therapist, and a bathing aide will also come to provide assistance.

All of this is being paid for by Medicare. No copay is required. Never, never vote for politicians, who want to cut Medicare and Social Security. Never, never vote for such horrible people. Without Medicare and Social Security, what will happen to us poor, handicapped people???

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This is Katie, the physical therapist, who came here on Friday: