Stroke Rehabilitation Case Study: Improving Mobility & Reducing Care Costs
The Patient: An 82-year-old active gentleman, deeply involved in his community and gardening.
The Challenge: A severe stroke left him with significant right-sided weakness.
The Situation: Discharged home dependent on a costly “double-up” care package (two carers, four times a day).
While the initial care 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. Facing a long waiting list for NHS physiotherapy, the family turned to Medella for help.
A Family Effort
From the start, he was motivated to improve. Cognitively, he was sharp and communicated well — he just needed the right physical support. His daughter stepped in to assist with his rehab sessions, working alongside our physiotherapist.
Together, we built a programme tailored to his needs. We also worked jointly with the NHS therapy team, combining resources to accelerate his 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.
- Care Costs: Reduced from 2 carers (4x daily) to 1 carer (3x daily).
- Mobility: Able to stand and transfer with minimal support.
- Impact: Huge financial saving and restored privacy for the couple.
Beyond the Practical
Although his walking remained limited, with the support of 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 and confidence helped him feel stronger 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. 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.