Four Steps to Prepare for Physical Therapy at Home

Having a therapist that comes to your home to perform your exercises, stretches, and other activities to encourage mobility is a great option for those that have difficulty getting around.  After all, that's one of the reasons they need to have the therapy in the first place.  At home health care in Philadelphia, PA offers a range of home services, like physical therapy, occupational therapy, caregiving, and nursing so that you don't have to worry about transportation or leaving the comforts of your own home.  However, you will still want to prepare your home for the health care services that you choose to receive.  There are a few steps to take to prepare your home for your physical therapy sessions.

Meet with Your Physical Therapist

Before you actually get started with the exercise aspect of physical therapy, you will likely have your therapist come out for an initial meeting.  During this meeting, they will be able to talk to you to assess your needs.  They will also take into account the space in which you will be working together so that they can utilize any household items or they can bring the proper equipment you'll need.  You may want to consider having a loved one here in case they have any information that you may forget to supply to your therapist.

Have a Physical Exam

Your therapist will likely ask you to perform some basic movements and exercises so that can assess things like your range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and other movement-related signs.  They will be looking to start you on a specific program, and they want to be sure that the exercises they choose meet your mobility and range.

Set Goals and Create a Plan

After the initial meeting and physical assessment, your physical therapist will set goals for you.  These will include both short-term and long-term goals that you will work on meeting in both your sessions with your therapist and independently with the assistance of your loved ones.  In order to meet these goals, you will also have a plan in place that involves certain exercises and daily plans to meet those goals.

Start Therapy at Home

Once the framework is laid out, you will be able to actually get started on physical therapy at home.  Your physical therapist may come out to your home a few times a week to work for periods of about 30-45 minutes each session.   They will work with you to ensure that you are practicing the proper form in your exercises, and they will monitor your progress over time.  

These are a few steps you'll want to take before your physical therapist comes to your home for their sessions with you.  When you work at home, you will not have to worry about the hassle or arranging transportation or getting somewhere on time.  Instead, the professionals in home health care in Philadelphia, PA will come to you.  If you are looking for quality, reliable, and professional in-home health care services, contact Empire Home Health Care today.