Before & After at a Glance
- Before: Dependent on 2 carers, 4 times a day. Unable to stand or walk.
- After: Reduced to 1 carer, 3 times a day. Able to stand, transfer with support, and even walk short distances with physiotherapy.
At 82, our client was a very active gentleman, deeply involved in his community and happiest when outdoors in the garden. But after suffering a severe stroke, his life changed overnight. He was left with significant weakness on his right side and discharged home with a care package of two carers visiting four times a day.
While this support was essential, it was also disruptive and costly. His wife had to structure her whole day around the carers’ schedule, and their independence as a couple was greatly reduced. The waiting list for NHS physiotherapy was long, so the family turned to us for help.
A Family Effort
From the start, he was motivated to improve. Cognitively, he was sharp, and he communicated well — he just needed the right physical support. His daughter stepped in to assist with his rehab sessions, working alongside our physiotherapist, while his wife, though supportive, was unable to help physically due to her own frailty.
Together, we built a programme tailored to his needs. Progress came gradually but steadily:
- Within a few months, he was able to stand again
- We worked jointly with the NHS therapy team, combining resources to accelerate progress
- With the use of a standing frame, he improved his range of movement, bowel health, and overall strength
Life-Changing Improvements
Soon after, he was able to use a Sara Stedy frame to support himself into standing and manage his own transfers with just one carer. His bed mobility also improved, meaning he needed less hands-on assistance day to day.
As a result, his care package reduced from two carers four times a day to one carer three times a day — a huge financial saving for the family and a significant improvement in quality of life.
Beyond the Practical
Although his walking remained limited, with two physiotherapists he was able to take a few steps holding a rail. These short walks weren’t functional for everyday life, but they gave him something just as valuable: hope, pride, and joy. He looked forward to each physio session, knowing he could stand tall and walk, even for a short time.
This boost to his mood, confidence, and physical ability had a ripple effect — helping him feel stronger, more comfortable, and more in control of his daily life.
A Positive Outcome
What began as a daunting situation — round-the-clock care, high costs, and uncertainty — became a story of progress and renewed independence. With his determination, his family’s support, and our physiotherapy input, he regained dignity, reduced his reliance on care, and rediscovered purpose in his week.