Years ago, individuals suffering from an illness, injury or significant surgery were able to recover in the hospital as long as they needed. However, current health insurance policies have reduced the time spent in the hospital. Now that extended hospital recovery time is no longer an option, post-acute care is vital to a smooth transition from hospital to home.

Physical Therapy

Often physical therapy is required after a significant injury, major surgery or an extended illness. Physical therapy increases mobility, strength and range of motion. In addition, therapy benefits those recovering from hip fractures, orthopedic conditions and cerebrovascular incidents. Physical therapy is also helpful for patients with chronic conditions such as arthritis and those recovering from a stroke or spinal cord injury. Rehabilitative methods include stretching, active resistance exercises and manual therapy. The goal of physical therapy is to return to pre-injury or pre-illness abilities.

Occupational Therapy 

The most fundamental difference between physical and occupational therapy is that a PT focuses on improving the patient’s ability to move their body. In contrast, an OT focuses on improving the patient’s ability to perform activities of daily living. For example, occupational therapy helps improve the ability to perform daily routines such as eating, bathing, dressing, housework and meal preparation after suffering from significant injuries. Occupational therapy can also help improve strength, mobility and cognitive limitations such as memory loss and problem-solving difficulties for patients with neurological disorders.

Wound Care and Other Medical Services

Many severe wounds require frequent monitoring and bandage changes to prevent infection and ensure the healing process is proceeding correctly. In addition, patients recovering from significant injuries benefit from treatment at post-acute care facilities, which also provide medical services, such as changing IVs and administering medications.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy is a beneficial and successful treatment for patients recovering from a brain injury, stroke or neurological disorder that has affected communication skills. Patients learn to speak concisely, find the right words and exercise volume control. Speech therapy also helps with cognition, memory, reading and writing and is helpful for patients who have dementia. Speech therapy can also provide dysphagia retraining. In addition, this therapy strengthens throat muscles for patients having trouble swallowing after a stroke, brain injury or other damage to the central nervous system.

Learn More About Our Post-Acute Care Rehab Services

We offer post-acute rehab in four locations: Hillcrest Health & Rehab in Bellevue, Hillcrest Country Estates Rehab Cottage in Papillion, Hillcrest Millard and Hillcrest Firethorn in Lincoln. Hillcrest’s post-acute care rehab services promote recovery in older adults, may prevent unnecessary hospital readmission and help avoid premature admission to a long-term care facility. Contact us today to learn more.