Thursday, Oct 15, 2009

Since Dad was discharged from the first floor and readmitted to the third floor of Reliant on Wednesday, he had to be re-evauated by the therapists (speech, physical, and occupational) and the doctor today. Apparently that is a requirement for Medicare. Each evaluation took about and hour, so it was a pretty busy morning. Now the each therapist will continue their intense focus on getting Harvey well! We are so very grateful to them!

The speech therapist works daily on porgressing Dad's ability to communicate. She uses melodic cues, pictures of everyday objects and needs, singing and other things to stimulate his voice and ability to communicate. The physical therapist works on strengthening Dad's legs so that he will be able to stand on his own and walk. She exercises Dad's right arm and leg so the muscles stay functional and his left side to balance his weight etc. Occupational therapy is for the every-day tasks, dressing and undressing with the use of only his left hand (for now), brushing his teeth, combing his hair, etc. Part of the reason one of us is with Dad during the day is to encourage him to work with the therapists. He gets frustrated with therapy because he thinks a lot of it is elementary or senseless. We know that by the facial expressions he makes and because he often just won't participate! Keep in mind that we are dealing with Harvey...he can be downright ornery!!! Fortunately, the therapists have good senses of humor and lots of patience!!!

Jean said the afternoon was busy with wonderful visitors, so the whole day went by pretty quickly!