October is National Physical Therapy Month, a time to recognize physical therapists and the many ways they help people maintain movement, comfort and quality of life.
In hospice and palliative care, physical therapy may look different from traditional rehabilitation. The goal is not always to regain a previous level of function. Instead, therapy can focus on helping patients make the most of their abilities, stay as comfortable and safe as possible and keep participating in the moments and activities that matter to them.
At Community Hospice & Palliative Care, that individualized approach is an important part of caring for the whole person.
Focusing on What Matters to the Patient
Every patient’s journey is different and so are their goals.
For one person, an important goal may be safely walking from the bedroom to a favorite chair. For another, it may be having enough strength and confidence to sit outside with family, move more comfortably in bed or safely transfer from a bed to a wheelchair.
Physical therapists can help identify ways to support those goals while considering the patient’s condition, abilities, comfort and changing needs.
Sometimes, even a small improvement in movement or positioning can make a meaningful difference in someone’s day.
Supporting Comfort and Safe Movement
As a serious illness progresses, changes in strength, balance, endurance and mobility can make everyday activities more difficult.
Physical therapy can provide strategies to help patients move more safely and comfortably. This may include guidance with positioning, transfers, mobility, exercises or the use of assistive equipment.
Physical therapists can also educate family members and caregivers, helping them learn safer ways to assist their loved one while also protecting their own safety and well-being.
Adapting Care as Needs Change
Hospice care is centered on meeting patients where they are. As a patient’s needs and abilities change, the care plan can change with them.
Rather than measuring success only by how far someone can walk or how much strength they can regain, success may be found in helping a patient conserve energy for something important, feel more comfortable or participate more fully in time with family and friends.
It is another example of how hospice care focuses not only on a person’s illness but on how they want to live.
Recognizing Physical Therapists
During National Physical Therapy Month, Community Hospice & Palliative Care recognizes the physical therapists who use their skills and compassion to support patients and families.
Their work can help patients navigate changing abilities with greater comfort, dignity and confidence while also giving caregivers practical tools to support their loved ones.
At Community Hospice & Palliative Care, every member of the care team shares a common purpose: helping patients live each day as fully and comfortably as possible, surrounded by the people and things that matter most.