Physiotherapy improves mobility for two Almonte residents
Monday October 1, 2007 -- Deron Hamel
Two residents who came to Almonte Country Haven a few years ago relied on their wheelchairs full time for mobility.

However, the care they have received — both from physiotherapists and the home’s staff members — has resulted in improved mobility for these women, says life enrichment co-ordinator Darlene Thibault.

Christina Watt had been in hospital for several months before coming to the Almonte long-term care home three years ago. Watt began a physiotherapy program after arriving at the home.

Over the years, the physiotherapists who come to the home have used range-of-motion exercises to help improve Watt’s mobility. This type of therapy focuses on increasing the flexibility of joints and muscles.

Although Watt still uses her wheelchair, she’s no longer dependent on it full time. Thibault has seen firsthand the improvement Watt has made.

“Before, she could walk in a straight line with three assistants, now she’s down to two assistants and she’s able to turn herself around,” she says.

Thibault notes that aside from her physiotherapy program and the strong support she has received from staff members, Watt has been a self-advocate in her recovery. She has set goals for her recovery and plans to achieve them.

“She has a plan,” says Thibault. “Her plan is to be able to self-mobilize herself into a car so she can visit family.”

Because of her will and self-motivation, Thibault believes Watt will be able to reach her goal by next spring.

Like Watt, Jean Sutton came to Almonte Country Haven unable to walk. And like Watt, Sutton participated in a physiotherapy program with a heavy focus on range-of-motion exercises.

When Sutton used to walk on her own she’d only be able to take a few steps before she needed to rest. Now, says Thibault, she can walk her entire path without stopping.

“I was walking with her last week and I noticed a very big improvement in her walking, and I said, ‘Oh, Jean, what are you doing differently?’” recalls Thibault. “For me to notice such a difference is huge.”

Since regaining some of their mobility, both women have shown a significant increase of self-confidence, says Thibault, adding that Watt and Sutton regularly attend activities.

Sutton attests to the positive impact the treatment has had on her life.

“It has been very good,” she says.