Life Care Center of LaGrange helps Barker regain independence

When Joyce Barker came to Life Care Center of LaGrange, Indiana, for rehab after a fall and hip fracture, she needed moderate to extensive assistance with her mobility and activities of daily living.

Barker participated in occupational therapy seven days a week with an eye to regaining her independence with tasks like getting dressed, bathing and taking care of daily hygiene. Therapists taught her energy conservation skills and how to use adaptive equipment to make her daily routine easier.

Physical therapists also met with Barker five days a week to help her work on balance and gait. They used shortwave diathermy to help reduce her post-surgical pain, and as she got stronger and was able to do more, they helped her use a walker and a rollator.

"Therapy helped to make me feel like I could get better and encouraged me toward my goal," Barker said. "They helped me return to my normal life. The nursing staff was very friendly, honest and encouraging and made me feel at home."

Barker returned home successfully on June 8, 2018.