Parkinson’s Rehab in Care Homes: Restoring Mobility Case Study
The Patient: An 80-year-old lady with Parkinson’s disease.
The Situation: Moved to a new care home to be closer to family.
The Problem: Assessed as unsafe to walk and placed on a restrictive care plan (two carers + transfer aid) despite her belief that she could still walk.
At her previous residence, she had managed to mobilise with a frame. However, upon arriving at her new care home, nursing staff found she was leaning back heavily and seemed unsafe. From the day of her arrival, she was managed via a hoist or transfer aid.
But she didn’t agree. She told her family again and again that she wanted to walk. Seeing our physio working with other residents, she was desperate for the opportunity to try. Being so dependent on carers left her feeling frustrated and restricted.
The Turning Point
Her family asked us to provide an independent assessment. It was immediately clear she still had potential.
With a Zimmer frame and the assistance of one carer (with another walking behind for reassurance), she was able to walk. It was a huge moment — the friends and carers who witnessed it all applauded her. It was an emotional breakthrough.
- Mobility: Progressed from transfer-aid dependent to walking up to 15 metres.
- Independence: Reduced from 2 carers to 1 carer for mobility.
- Wellbeing: Restored dignity, control, and confidence.
Rebuilding Strength & Dynamic Risk Assessment
Today, she is mobile within the care home. As is common with Parkinson’s, her mobility can vary depending on her medication timing or if she has an infection. On difficult days, she may lean backwards more and require additional support.
To manage this safely without restricting her, we work collaboratively with the care home team. We encourage dynamic risk assessments, ensuring her opportunities for mobility are maximised according to how she presents on that specific day, rather than a blanket “no walking” policy.
A Positive Impact
We now see her fortnightly to maintain her progress and provide reassurance. For her, this has meant less time waiting for assistance and a greater sense of control. For her family, it has been hugely reassuring to see her regaining the mobility she always believed she still had.