Physical therapists often rely on caregivers when a patient needs assistance and/or is unable to speak for himself. A caregiver may be asked to assist a patient with a home program of exercises and activities. How can a caregiver prepare for the patient's first visit with a physical therapist? How does a caregiver with little or no medical training take part in the physical therapy program? Does a caregiver's participation in therapy programs really make a difference?
How Can a Caregiver Prepare for the Patient's First Physical Therapy Visit?
The caregiver can get involved right from the start by preparing for the first PT visit. Prepare to answer a lot of questions regarding home life and the patient's daily activities. (Hint: Keep a daily journal to avoid having to remember so many details.)
Here is a list of things a caregiver can do in preparation for the patient's first visit to a PT:
- Write down any questions for the therapist.
- Bring a small pad to take notes.
- Make a list of all physicians and healthcare providers that see the patient.
- Write down all medications the patient takes, both prescription and over-the-counter. Additionally, record any topical ointments and aids (Ace bandages, knee brace, for example) the patient uses.
- Collect X-rays, lab results and any medical test results and bring them to the appointment.
- Be prepared to answer in-depth questions about the patient's health history.
- Prepare to answer questions about home life, home environment and daily activities. Include school, sports, hobbies and/or work in the conversation, too.
- Plan to discuss anything out of the ordinary concerning the patient's health profile, such as a low pain tolerance, frequent anxiety attacks, wandering, memory lapses and anything of this nature.
- Find out how the patient should dress for appointments (sweat outfit, shorts and tee shirt)
- Plan to bring mobility equipment that the patient uses, such as a prosthetic device, crutches or a walker.
The therapist will examine and observe the area(s) in need of attention. If a doctor has prescribed a specific type of physical treatment, then the therapist will follow those orders. Otherwise, he or she will make an evaluation and determine the most effective therapy program. The therapist will explain what needs to be done for the patient at home. As part of the treatment plan, the therapist may ask the caregiver if she is willing and able to assist the patient with home exercises and activities.
Caution: A caregiver may not have the stomach for the task, may get too stressed out or may have strong emotional feelings about taking part. If that's the case, then this is the time to speak up.
How a Home Caregiver Can Take Part the Patient's Physical Therapy Program
The caregiver won't be asked to do complicated treatments or therapy exercises that are best left to the licensed professionals. The therapist has to consider the caregiver's age. He has to consider the caregiver's ability to assist with the therapy program.
Examples of physical therapy activities in which a caregiver might be asked to participate:
- Range of motion (ROM) exercises. ROM exercises can be passive or active. The therapist will demonstrate.
- Mild stretching exercises. Again, the therapist will demonstrate and might even have the caregiver join in the rehab session.
- Exercises involving home activities. Tossing a ball back and forth with a child is one example. Another example: Have an elderly parent push a light floor sweeper back and forth to exercise his arm and hand that were weakened by a stroke.
A Caregiver is a Valued Member of the Therapy Program
A caregiver is an important member of the patient's rehabilitation team and therapy program. Physicians depend on caregivers to see to it that a patient's needs are met. Physical therapists (and other healthcare providers) often seek help and support from the home or primary caregiver, especially when the patient is unable to carry out certain activities alone. A competent and willing family caregiver can make a remarkable difference in patient care and recovery.
The caregiver who willingly takes an active part in therapy may help speed the patient's recovery time. In addition to the exercises, therapists rely on a caregiver's point of view concerning any problems with the therapy program. A caregiver may be asked to keep a journal of her work with the patient. She may even be invited to discuss the patient's progress with the healthcare team.
It's a great hands-on learning experience for the caregiver who is asked to assist a loved one with his physical therapy program. There's no need for a caregiver to be concerned if she's had little or no medical training. The therapist will see to it that the caregiver becomes thoroughly familiar with any activity before asking her to work with the loved one at home.
Mary King - Mary King is a Suite101 Topic Editor for the Caregiver Support and Home Management sections. She has authored 5 teen-based novels.
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