Rehabilitation services are vital for ensuring that people with health conditions, injuries, disabilities or long-term impairments continue to live as fully and independently as possible. It also helps to improve the lives of the patients themselves and their family and friends, and supports them to take part in society as well.
Rehabilitation encompasses a wide range of interventions that aim to restore, prevent or slow deterioration in functioning (sensorial, physical, intellectual, mental and cognitive), promote recovery and support self-management of health and disability. It is a multidisciplinary, person-centred service that places the patient at the centre of the care process, and provides an essential link in the treatment chain.
A broad range of physical therapies are offered in a rehab facility, from simple gait therapy to exercises for individuals who are using a wheelchair or have a severe disability. The therapists in this area will work with the client to develop a plan that targets their specific needs, with a focus on improving strength, tone and flexibility. They will also use specialized products and equipment to help with balance training and posture, as well as to improve energy conservation in the body.
Occupational therapy is another common area in a rehab center, with therapists working with clients to perform everyday activities in an environment similar to that of the home, such as washing dishes and laundry, preparing meals, or using a bathroom with special grab rails, tub seats and roll-in showers. The therapists will also provide a number of other therapeutic techniques for helping people with disabilities to function more independently and effectively in their daily lives.
Inpatient rehabilitation is a hospital or unit-based rehabilitation program for patients with acute medical issues who have sustained severe injuries, illnesses, or disability and require intense and coordinated rehabilitation care. These inpatient programs are designed to help individuals recover and regain full function, and to prevent repeat injuries or other complications.
These rehabilitation services are usually provided by a team of health professionals, including physical north stream, occupational and speech therapists, social workers, and other allied health professionals. They will work with the individual to develop a plan that addresses the particular challenges they face, and they will monitor their progress in order to ensure success.
Outpatient rehabilitation centers are typically less expensive than inpatient rehab, and insurance is generally more willing to cover the costs of outpatient rehab if there are enough visits made per year. These visits may be a combination of different therapies, and they are generally arranged at the same time on the same day to save the client the hassle of making several trips back and forth between the therapy locations.
There are many different types of rehab facilities across the United States and abroad, with varying levels of complexity and intensity. However, most facilities follow a similar approach to treating their patients and the treatments they offer.