Success Story: Thomas

A proud military man – inside and out – Thomas, 70, came to Neptune Gardens following a bad fall which resulted in bi-lateral hip displacements. Thomas also required nightly peritoneal dialysis treatment and to make matters worse, had recently began experiencing rapid vision loss (legally blind upon admission, Thomas’ sight was fine just six-months prior).

Working with Thomas, our occupational and physical therapy teams developed a tailored recovery plan with strategic rehab objectives – our goal was to help Thomas regain his independence so he could return home.

Considering his vision impairment, a referral was made to the Commission for the Blind to assist Thomas with his transition back home. Our staff also contacted our local Veteran’s representative to assist Thomas with the disability application process.

Always an eager and active participant at our physical and occupational therapy sessions, Thomas always displayed a “can do” spirit – a attitude he attributed his military background.

Thomas progressed from having to use a wheelchair and needing a high level of assistance, to relying on just a walker. Upon his discharge, Thomas had made an incredible recovery; walking freely and only needing an individual to walk alongside due to his visual impairment. Thomas was now independent in all of his activities of daily living (ADL), including dressing, bathing, and meal preparation. In addition, our nursing staff were successful in training Thomas to use his peritoneal dialysis equipment – an amazing feat!