"Gradually, with the help of my physios, I am now like a mountain goat. I can climb the stairs no problems!" said our client, Keith.
At 79-years old, the Fremantle resident underwent an emergency heart bypass in March. He recovered from the operation, and on discharge from hospital Keith entered the care of Silverchain Group’s physiotherapy team.
Physiotherapist Siobhan McCloskey and Therapy Assistant Isabelle McCosker have been working with Keith at home, using common household items. When they first started physio, Keith needed to improve his functional movement and balance while experiencing severe shortness of breath.
“I couldn’t walk to the front gate or climb up my stairs to my bedroom,” said Keith.
Siobhan says Keith was not in great physical shape post-surgery, but that he performed his physio sessions using his kitchen bench and staircase as equipment. Siobhan said.
An exercise program was tailored for Keith to help with his endurance and balance and to build leg and arm strength.
"Keith has made really great progress; he is stronger and stronger each time I see him and is now able to walk 30 minutes, no problems."
Thanks to the help of our team, the retired public servant is now able to go about his daily tasks with ease.
"With the help of the Silverchain physios I can now do my washing, hang towels and sheets on the line, which I couldn't have done when I got out of hospital. I can walk around the block without having to sit on people's fences to rest. My neighbour commented I was walking with much more confidence!
Tuesday, 8 September 2020 is World Physiotherapy Day, when we thank our 93-strong physiotherapy team for their professionalism and expertise in keeping older Australians strong and safe in their own homes.