How to keep getting better even after you get out of the hospital

Patients who get occupational and physical therapy immediately following acute care tend to enjoy better health outcomes and improved quality of life, according to a recent study directed by the American Physical Therapy Association and the American Occupational Therapy Association that analyzed data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.  

Their analysis showed that, although it may be challenging to commit to therapy after a hospital stay, it is worth the effort. Here are five strategies for post-acute-care rehabilitation that can bring immediate and lifelong benefits.

Restoring, maintaining and improving movement

Physical therapists can diagnose problems with movement and devise a plan to improve function for patients exiting acute care. Not only can these specialists help patients move better, they also can help them move properly to relieve pain. Some of the other positive outcomes include improved balance, increased strength and decreased fall risk. ^{Image licensed by Shutterstock}

Finding new ways to perform daily tasks

After an operation, injury or stroke, it may be difficult to perform some daily living tasks. An occupational therapist can address those issues or help develop new methods of doing them. In some cases, the occupational therapist can help patients regain lost abilities or even improve on them. 

Working for a healthier heart

After a heart attack or heart surgery, it is important to take steps to prevent future cardiac problems. A cardiac rehabilitation therapy team can include medical professionals, exercise specialists and nutritionists who offer guidance on fitness and lifestyle changes to improve a patient’s health and reduce the risks of future heart problems. 

Restoring the power of speech

Strokes and other nerve injuries to the brain can affect a person’s ability to communicate. A speech-language pathologist is often able to treat and support people who suffer speech, language and swallowing disorders. Using a variety of therapies including problem-solving activities, strengthening oral muscles and improving swallowing issues, these professionals can often help a patient improve or manage speech skills.

Learning to breathe easier

People dealing with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia and similar health issues struggle to breathe. A respiratory therapist can help strengthen muscles and improve breathing. These therapists can also monitor oxygen levels and test lung strength. Using this information, they can develop a plan to address breathing difficulties and track progress. 

When more is needed

A person with complex medical issues often needs more than one type of therapy. For example, after a stroke, a person may need physical, occupational, speech and breathing therapy. Instead of traveling to multiple locations to get this level of care, some patients wisely choose to stay in a short-term care facility where several therapies are offered. Glenview Terrace provides all of these services in an elegant setting. Guests receive one-on-one therapy up to seven days a week, delivered by the area’s top therapists, which can help speed recovery. Guests also receive around-the-clock nursing care. A short stay at Glenview Terrace can mean a better, faster and safer way to recover and get back to your active life.  When skilled care is needed, look to Glenview Terrace.

At Glenview Terrace, the focus is always to help get you back to the independent lifestyle you desire. Focusing on healthcare excellence and safety, Glenview Terrace provides the latest infection-control precautions, including routine COVID-19 testing and monitoring. Glenview Terrace is also ranked among the top 1% of all Illinois post-hospital rehabilitation and nursing care centers by Newsweek — and has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval certification for post-hospital and post-surgical care. For additional information or to arrange a personalized virtual tour, visit glenviewterrace.com or call 847-729-9090.