Christine’s Mobility Reablement Care:
Getting Christine Back on Her Feet
Losing mobility means losing independence which is why we do all we can to encourage Clients to get moving again.
Kingsway Care Client Coordinator, Denise, promised 80-year-old Christine she would be mobile again. Let's find out how they did it.
Reablement Care
When we talk about reablement at Kingsway Care, we mean business – and for our lovely client Christine, that meant rolling up our sleeves. We put on our thinking caps, making sure she got back on her feet (literally!).
From Bed Bound To Walking
Around mid-December 2024, concerns were raised about our Client Christine’s mobility. She had bruises on both shoulders and, in her own words, felt like she had "glue under her feet – her brain knew where she wanted to go, but her feet simply weren’t cooperating." That’s when alarm bells rang, and Denise stepped in to investigate.
Parkinson's Medication
It turned out that Christine had missed doses of her Parkinson’s medication due to a delayed delivery from the Pharmacy. She also skipped a few doses because of her worries about running out. When Denise visited, she was shocked to see that Christine could no longer stand independently. Her Parkinson’s symptoms had escalated dramatically. Something had to be done – and fast!
Christine was bed bound for Christmas after missing a few doses of her Parkinson's medication.
Kingsway to the Rescue
The first course of action was to ramp up Christine’s care visits to four double-up (two CareGivers) visits per day. This ensured she had the support she needed around the clock. We also secured an urgent occupational therapy (OT) assessment and sorted out her medication regimen.
The OT advised immediate bed care while a physiotherapist worked on mobility interventions. Until her medication resumed a normal routine, it was uncertain whether this decline was permanent. But if there’s one thing we know at Kingsway Care, it’s that determination can go a long way.
Our team got to work:
- Organising blister packs to ensure Christine took her medication correctly.
- We secured urgent OT assessments for equipment, including an Ambiturn, commode chair, and bed rails.
- Denise and Kellie, our Care Supervisor, made sure every CareGiver was trained to use the new equipment. They implemented the care plan smoothly.
- Denise personally took on many morning visits, making a promise to Christine. She’d be walking again before Denise retired from her role as Client Coordinator in February 2025.
Celebrating Mobility & Independence
And guess what? Denise delivered on her promise! After weeks of being bed bound over Christmas, Christine not only got back on her feet but even managed a trip to the dentist. She made a visit to her favourite supermarket – Lidl. Now that’s what we call progress!
The Key to Reablement Success
Christine’s journey back to independence was built on the foundations of effective reablement:
1. Focus on Independence: Reablement helps individuals build or regain the confidence and skills necessary to live independently, even if full recovery isn't possible.
2. Short-term, Practical support: The interventions are usually brief (6 to 12 weeks) and focus on practical strategies for everyday living.
3. Goal-orientated but realistic: The focus is on achieving realistic, functional goals based on the person's current abilities and needs. The emphasis is on safety, independence, and quality of life.
4. Holistic approach: Reablement considers the person's physical, mental, and social needs. This ensures they are equipped to manage day-to-day tasks in a way that works for them.
Watch Christine Walk Again
Watch the TikTok below or YouTube if you prefer to see Christine triumphantly walking again.
Walking Independently
Christine is now walking independently with a Zimmer frame and spends her days enjoying her regained freedom. She still has four visits per day, now with a single CareGiver. Kingsway Care continues to manage her medication at her request. She remains cautious, fearing a return to being frozen and bed bound. However, with the Kingsway Care team by her side, she’s in safe hands.
Denise, who first brought Christine on as a Client from a rehab unit in Bognor back in 2022, will deeply miss working with her. But knowing that Christine has reclaimed her independence is the best farewell gift she could ask for.
A Final Tip from the Parkinson’s Nurse
During a recent visit, Christine’s Parkinson’s nurse shared some valuable advice. Parkinson’s medication is best taken on an empty stomach 30 minutes before food for optimal absorption. Plus, constipation can interfere with how the medication is absorbed, potentially leading to freezing episodes. Small adjustments can make a huge difference.
At Kingsway Care, we’re not just about providing care – we’re about changing lives. Christine’s story shows the power of our reablement teamwork.
Client Success StoriesHospital Bed to Home Comforts
