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In my earlier years of practice, I decided to take on a physiotherapist position in long-term care. After working in a clinic setting, I was unsure of how I would manage and enjoy working in senior’s health and chronic care. I did not know what I could offer my patients to further improve their functional independence.
I soon realized how much I would grow to appreciate the value of my own independence and in doing so, the opportunities I could bring to help residents become independent in their own home. I began to see long-term care as their home, not their final destination in function and life.
This growth and restorative approach came with a lot of support but equally a lot of push-back and conflict from front-line staff. Despite this, I persisted because I deeply felt we were doing our residents and staff good. My purpose was not only to “give physio” but to enrich lives, and the only way I knew to do that was to guide residents in reclaiming independence in their best capacity possible.
Our physio team worked diligently with residents, including their family and substitute decision makers, to optimize their function. Residents who had required mechanical lifts for years to transfer in and out of bed were progressing to standing again. Residents who had limb paralysis or contractures for years were using devices to help them be more mobile and comfortable. Residents were also beginning to fall less without the use of restraints.
Eventually, staff started to come around and we all worked together to discover ways for our residents to be more independent in their own homes again. Communication between staff became more open and fluid and a greater sense of community started to bloom. Suddenly, everyone was on the same team as our purpose became more collective.
No matter where your patients are in their journey, there is always something you can do to facilitate more independence and growth. You know that even the smallest gains are life-changing to your patients. If something is not within your scope, you can refer to other providers who can best serve their needs in that moment. After all, the whole point of chronic care is to provide care over an indefinite period of time that facilitates growth and recovery.