Providing compassionate in-home and out-patient care in Plymouth, NH

Celebrating Physical Therapy Month

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Celebrates Physical Therapy Month

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is proud to join the nation in celebrating Physical Therapy Month this October. This observance highlights the crucial role physical therapists play in enhancing the quality of life for individuals of all ages. At Pemi-Baker, we take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our team of home health physical therapists, whose dedication profoundly impacts our patients’ well-being.

This year, we recognize the outstanding contributions of our skilled physical therapy team, including:Home Physical Therapy, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH.

  • Ernie Roy, PT, DPT
  • Judy Bolger, PT
  • Suzanne Sportiello, PT
  • Stacey Barney, PT, DPT
  • Pam Bello, PTA
  • Scott Wright, PTA

These professionals go above and beyond, providing compassionate, personalized care that helps homebound patients regain strength, mobility, and independence in the comfort of their own homes.

The Importance of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a vital role in managing a broad range of health conditions. At Pemi-Baker, our expert therapists provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Home health physical therapy services can assist in the management and improvement of conditions such as:

  • Orthopedic Injuries: Assisting in recovery from fractures, joint replacements, and musculoskeletal injuries to enhance mobility and alleviate pain.
  • Neurological Disorders: Providing specialized care for patients with conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries to improve functional outcomes.
  • Cardiopulmonary Conditions: Helping individuals with heart and lung conditions enhance cardiovascular fitness and pulmonary function.
  • Balance and Falls Prevention: Focused on improving balance, gait, and coordination to minimize fall risks, particularly for elderly patients.
  • Chronic Pain Management: Offering a holistic approach to reducing chronic pain and improving overall quality of life.
  • Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: Facilitating recovery after surgeries, helping patients regain strength and mobility.

Understanding Home Health Physical Therapy

Patients qualify for home health physical therapy when they are considered “homebound,” a term used to describe individuals whose medical, psychiatric, or social conditions make it difficult or unsafe to leave their homes. A healthcare professional evaluates a patient’s status to determine eligibility for these services, which provide the convenience of receiving care at home.

How to Access Our Services

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health invites the community to learn more about our home health physical therapy services. Whether you or a loved one could benefit from physical therapy, our dedicated team is here to provide support, education, and compassionate care. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us at 603-536-2232.

Gratitude to Our Team

As we celebrate Physical Therapy Month, we extend our deepest appreciation to the remarkable physical therapists at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. Their unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our patients continues to inspire us all.

Empowering Independence: Pemi-Baker’s In-Home Therapy Services

Empowering Independence: Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Offers In-Home Therapy Services Home physical therapy with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is known for its excellent nursing services at home. But did you know that Pemi-Baker also offers outstanding therapy services at home? This includes Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy. These services help people regain their confidence and independence in everyday tasks and deal with new challenges or disabilities.

The therapy services provided by Pemi-Baker go beyond the usual care. Our therapists come to your home to make it safer and more manageable, improving your quality of life and helping you stay in your own home as you age. This personalized approach makes therapy a seamless part of your daily routine, without the hassle of travel or scheduling.

“Our therapists are devoted to helping people overcome challenges and reach their highest potential,” said Aubrey Engle, BSN, RN, Executive Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “Whether it’s learning to swallow again, managing tasks after surgery, or improving physical fitness, our team is dedicated to helping our clients live life to the fullest.”

Here’s how Pemi-Baker therapy services can help with common problems:

  1. Speech Therapy: If you have trouble swallowing, our licensed Speech Therapists can help. They use personalized techniques to help many clients eat and drink independently again, which improves their overall quality of life.
  2. Occupational Therapy: After surgery or injury, tasks like tying shoelaces or picking up objects can be hard. Our Occupational Therapists offer personalized solutions to improve existing skills and teach new ones, so you can do daily activities on your own.
  3. Physical Therapy: Our Physical Therapists not only help with recovery but also focus on long-term health. They give guidance on exercises tailored to your needs, so you can improve mobility and health on your own or with some help.

Getting home health therapy with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is easy. Most patients are referred by their doctor, who can confirm the need for home therapy services. Patients can choose Pemi-Baker by telling their doctor they want our services. If you’re unsure about the process or thinking about therapy, call us, we can help guide you through it.

“At PBH&HH, we believe that everyone deserves access to exceptional therapy services in the comfort of their own home,” added Engle. “We’re committed to empowering individuals to live their best lives, one therapy session at a time.”

For more information about Pemi-Baker’s home health therapy services, visit www.pbhha.org or call 603-536-2232.

Celebrating Physical Therapy Month & Honoring our Exceptional Physical Therapists

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health proudly joins the nation in celebrating Physical Therapy Month this October. As we take this opportunity to raise awareness about the crucial role of physical therapy in improving lives, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team of home health physical therapists who make a profound impact on our patients’ well-being.In home physical therapy from Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

This year, we are delighted to recognize the remarkable contributions of our outstanding physical therapists:

  1. Ernie Roy, PT, DPT
  2. Lauren Youngs, PT
  3. Judy Bolger, PT
  4. Suzanne Sportiello, PT
  5. Stacey Barney, PT, DPT
  6. Pam Bello, PTA

These healthcare heroes have gone above and beyond in providing compassionate, personalized care to our homebound patients, helping them regain strength, mobility, and independence in the comfort of their own homes.

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in addressing a wide range of health conditions, and our expert team at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is equipped to provide comprehensive care tailored to individual needs. Home health physical therapy can assist patients in managing and improving various health conditions, including but not limited to:

  1. Orthopedic Injuries: Our physical therapists are adept at helping individuals recover from fractures, joint replacements, and musculoskeletal injuries, enhancing their mobility and reducing pain.
  2. Neurological Disorders: We specialize in providing therapy for patients with conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries, promoting better functional outcomes.
  3. Cardiopulmonary Conditions: Our skilled therapists work with individuals suffering from heart and lung conditions, enhancing their cardiovascular fitness and pulmonary function.
  4. Balance and Falls Prevention: We focus on improving balance, gait, and coordination to minimize the risk of falls among our elderly patients, ensuring their safety at home.
  5. Chronic Pain Management: Our holistic approach to physical therapy aims to reduce chronic pain and improve the quality of life for individuals dealing with ongoing discomfort.
  6. Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: We facilitate post-operative recovery, helping patients regain strength and mobility after surgical procedures.

It’s important to understand what “homebound” means. A person is considered homebound when they have a condition (medical, psychiatric, or social) that makes it extremely challenging or medically inadvisable to leave their home. This status is evaluated by a healthcare professional and is a crucial criterion for eligibility for home health services like physical therapy.

We invite everyone in our community to contact Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health to learn more about how our home health physical therapy services can benefit you or your loved ones. Our dedicated team is here to provide support, education, and compassionate care. You can reach us at 603-536-2232.

As we celebrate Physical Therapy Month, we extend our deepest gratitude to our exceptional team of physical therapists at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. Your unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our patients is an inspiration to us all.

May is Arthritis Awareness Month: Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Encourages Exercise for Better Balance and Flexibility

May is Arthritis Awareness Month, and Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is reminding the community that exercise can help those affected by arthritis. Contrary to popular belief, exercise is beneficial for people with arthritis symptoms and can improve their overall health and quality of life.Walking for exercise, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The disease causes joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, making it difficult for people to move and perform daily activities. While there is no cure for arthritis, proper exercise and physical therapy can help manage symptoms and reduce pain.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health has a team of experienced physical and occupational therapists who can help patients with arthritis come up with a safe and effective exercise plan. Our therapists work with patients to design individualized exercise programs that can be done at home. Even if you are homebound, our therapists can still help you stay active and healthy.Strength training, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

Regular exercise has been shown to:

  • Reduce joint pain and stiffness
  • Improve joint flexibility and range of motion
  • Strengthen muscles and bones
  • Improve balance and reduce falls
  • Boost energy and mood

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health encourages all people challenged with arthritis, to talk to their doctor about incorporating exercise into their treatment plan. Our team is here to support you and help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

To learn more about our home health physical and occupational therapy services, please visit our website or call us at 603-536-2232.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

Getting Physical, Occupational or Speech Therapy in Your Home

Therapeutic Services Provided by Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health (PBH&HH) is well known for its Home Health nursing services but did you realize you can get home health therapy as well? Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy all help individuals regain their confidence and independence with daily activities as well as help you learn to cope with any new disabilities or challenges. While in the home, they also assist clients with outfitting their homes to create safer, more manageable environments that enhance the quality of life and support aging in place.

We can meet your needs in the comfort of home and eliminate burdensome traveling and scheduling. Our therapists also gain access to important information about your home setting and any challenges that you might face. By receiving care in your home, your family has the opportunity to participate, increasing the benefits to you as well.

  • I had a stroke and can speak fine, but my ability to swallow was impacted. Can therapy help me? Yes! Pemi-Baker’s licensed Speech Therapists work with patients every day helping them to cope with swallowing concerns and improve functioning. This allows many to regain their independence when it comes to eating and drinking.Knee physical therapy Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Plymouth NH
  • After returning home from my knee replacement, I can no longer bend to tie my shoelaces or pick up objects. Can you help me to cope? Our Occupational Therapists can help you by improving the skills that you currently use to complete these tasks as well as teach you new methods for completing them. This would require a physician’s referral and is beneficial for improving your ability to complete many activities of daily living.
  • Will my Physical Therapist teach me activities that I can do on my own? Fitness and wellness are important parts of home health Physical Therapy. Your therapist will teach you many appropriate exercises that you can complete on your own or with assistance from your caregiver or a family member. These exercises often enhance your recovery and help to speed healing.

How Do You Get Home Health Therapy?Physical Therapy Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth NH

Most patients who receive home health therapy are referred to the service by their physician. Your doctor can make the referral to any local visiting nurse service that offers therapy, and he or she can attest that home services are medically necessary. This medical necessity report will likely also state that home health therapy is needed because you are unable to leave the house due to your condition or circumstances. Patients can choose who they go to for services, they just need to mention the organization to their physician. (Keep in mind if you have insurance you should always check to confirm what providers are included).

If you feel you may benefit from Physical, Occupational or Speech Therapy at home, you can also call Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. We can help you navigate the pathway to receiving home health therapy.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

~Written by Anna Swanson

How to Plan For Recovery at Home After Surgery

In this blog, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health brings to light the services you can receive after surgery and how to be prepared before your surgery. There are a lot of things to think about when preparing for major surgery. What are the risks? Will you be in pain? Have you thought about what help you’ll need to recover? Will you be able to stay at home while you heal? Although every surgical recovery is different, the goals of home-based clinical care after surgery include patient and family involvement, shared decision-making, and flexibility around changes in plans to meet your needs.

Having home care services from Pemi-Baker can help you recover more quickly, keep you safe at home, and just as importantly, help you avoid another hospital stay.

Planning ahead for care

Although it’s not always possible to schedule your surgery in advance, you should understand beforehand how long your recovery may take, what you will and will not be able to do, and what help you will need while you are home.

Speaking to your doctor or your hospital discharge planner about home health care services prior to surgery will help you prepare for when you go home again. If your surgery is the result of an emergency situation, a family member or other caregiver could arrange for services on your behalf.

Additionally, since outpatient (day) surgery has become a much more common option, many people find themselves recovering from surgery at home the same day as their procedure. Some are unprepared to effectively manage their pain and discomfort, making it difficult for them to perform even routine tasks or basic personal care. They may be weak and tired. Managing multiple medications can be confusing and properly caring for the incision site can be challenging. The trusted, compassionate staff at Pemi-Baker will help.

How home health care helps your recovery

Home health care is personalized to fit your needs, based on your physician’s instructions and your own personal preferences. Depending on the complexity of the surgery, you may receive a single type of care or a combination of services. Nurses can provide services including wound care and medication management, while home health aides can provide assistance with personal care including bathing, dressing, and light housekeeping. Physical and occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, and social workers also play an important role in the recovery process. With orders from your doctor and input from you about your needs, the Pemi-Baker team will design a plan of care to reach your goals and help you recover.

What you can do ahead of the surgery

You can make your recovery at home go a lot smoother if you take a little time to plan ahead. Ask your doctor what you won’t be able to do at first while you’re healing up, and get help from friends and family to prepare your living space. You need to be careful about falling after an operation. “People get dizzy because they haven’t eaten for a few days and from being in bed,” says Jenn Stewart, RN, Clinical Supervisor. “You may need to get a walker or crutches to cut down your risk of a fall. Other tips to avoid stumbling would be using night lights in hallways, sleeping in a bedroom near a bathroom, wearing flat shoes or slippers and reducing the clutter in your home” said Stewart.

  • Do I need to make changes to my house? This depends on what kind of operation you have. If it’s a complicated one, like a joint replacement or stomach surgery, you may need to tweak a few things in the bathroom or bedroom for easier access.
  • Stairs: If you can’t climb up and down them after your surgery, you might have to make some changes. For instance, if your bedroom is upstairs, you may need to sleep on a lower floor for a while. Ask your friends or family to move your bed before you go into the hospital, or check into renting a hospital bed if you need it.
  • Equipment: After some types of surgery, you’ll need to get special gear at home. Plan ahead if your doctor tells you that you need oxygen tanks, elevated toilets, shower seats, supplies to care for your cut, or other items. Get in touch with your insurance company to see if they’re part of your coverage.
  • Stock your pantry: Ask your doctor if you have to stick to a certain diet. Make sure you’re well supplied with the right food before you get back home. Since you may feel tired during your recovery, prepare some meals before your operation and put them in the freezer.

There are many things you and your family can do to prepare for your surgery and give you the best possible recovery. Make arrangements in advance if your surgeon suggests getting a nurse, physical therapist, or health aide. Make sure you schedule the first visit before you leave the hospital. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health can see you in less than 24 hours of arriving home.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

~Written by Anna Swanson

In-Home Physical Therapy Helping Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

October is National Physical Therapy month as well as Breast Cancer Awareness month and the physical therapists at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health can assist patients with breast cancer to live a more functional life. Often there is a missing link once a person is diagnosed with breast cancer. A patient can go through the whole diagnosis, yet have many questions about how to return to their prior level of function or how to progress themselves into strength training or exercises after treatment. Pemi-Baker therapists will come to your home, answer your questions and help you on that path of recovery.

While medical treatment for breast cancer is saving more lives, the disease may leave patients with significant side effects from chemotherapy and/or radiation causing treatment induced fatigue.

If a person undergoes surgery, there can be significant scar tissue, which causes limitations of everyday movement.  After having a lumpectomy, mastectomy and/or breast reconstruction people may experience scar tissue restrictions, swelling, shoulder, neck or back pain. If a person is feeling tightness, pain, loss of range of motion or strength, or feels like their posture is being impaired, these can be signs identifying the need for physical therapy.

Together, through physical therapy, we will help you:

  • Restore your mobility and posture
  • Decrease or eliminate your pain
  • Rebuild your strength and endurance
  • Return you to work and play
  • Boost your energy
  • Prevent or combat the effects of lymphedema

“Our team of physical therapy specialists are your partners in this journey back to health and enjoying the activities you love. We will visit you as soon as you return home, answering any questions or concerns you might have as well as help you prepare a plan, for moving and feeling better, while regaining strength and energy,” said Danielle Paquette-Horne, RN, Executive Director.

Research shows that physical exercise and activity are key factors in breast cancer survivors regaining vitality and returning to optimal health. Let us help you with these side effects so you can regain your health in motion! Call today to learn more about our experienced, home care providers: 603-536-2232.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Preventing Falls in the Home

Falls have been a leading cause of injury for older Americans for decades, and the data on this problem is startling. As a Physical Therapist with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health for nearly 12 years now, I can attest to the number of home health patients we treat annually due to a fall.  Research compiled by the CDC finds:

  • In 2018, approximately 36 million falls occurred among people aged 65 and over in the US, and of that number, there were roughly 8 million injuries.(1)
  • One out of every 5 falls among older adults causes a serious injury, such as a broken bone or a head injury.
  • In fact, falls are the most common cause for traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
  • If you are curious about the cost of all this falling to the healthcare system, annually it totals close to 50 billion dollars for non-fatal falls, and another 750 million dollars for fatal falls.
  • NH actually has a higher than average rate of deaths due to falling, with a rate of 109 deaths per 100,000 falls annually. The national average is 66-68 deaths per 100,000 falls.

The WHO has reported that people over the age of 75 tend to fall more frequently in their homes, while those younger than age 75 seem to fall outside more often.  Prior surveys found that around 30% of falls in the home happened in the living room, while another 30% were occurring in the bedroom. 19% of falls from this data set took place in the bathroom.

As for the reasons why people fall, there are numerous contributing causes.  Many times, a person who falls will have several issues that weigh in against them. The evidence shows the likelihood of falls can be influenced by many factors including:

  • A prior fall. This is often the single strongest predictor of further falls.
  • Weakness of the leg or hip muscles. This can contribute to poor balance and slower reaction times, making it harder to stop a fall if a person stumbles or bumps into something
  • Poor vision, which also influences balance
  • Use of medications such as sedatives, some pain killers, or anti- depressants. Some of these may cause drowsiness or slower reactions.
  • Joint pain, especially in the feet, ankles, knees or hips.
  • Trip/slip hazards in the home such as clutter, objects lying in hallways, poor lighting, high thresholds, liquid spilled onto floors.

Fortunately, there are some effective options available to help reduce the chances of falling. The CDC has published a manual titled “A CDC Compendium of Effective Fall Interventions”.  The first item they go over is exercise. Studies have repeatedly shown that specially designed exercises aimed at weak muscles and poor balance can be effective for many people in reducing falls.

The second item in the CDC Compendium effective for reducing falls was modification to the living environment. This might consist of things like making sure there is adequate lighting, getting rid of broken down old footwear, installing color contrasting tape on stairs, or getting a shower chair and hand-held shower attachment in place.

For over 55 years, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health has been providing services exactly as I have described above, to people in Grafton County, right in their homes.  Our agency has highly trained, caring Occupational and Physical Therapists who can bring their expertise to your home and give you the right guidance on what you should do to reduce your chances of a fall.  We can create custom home exercise programs and recommend practical, effective ways to modify your living environment for better safety.  While our outpatient OT and PT service has now transitioned to operating thru the Mid-State Health Center, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health continues to provide top quality in-home OT, PT, and Nursing care.  For more details, call or check our website www.pbhha.org.

References:

  1. https://www.cdc.gov/falls/index.html

With over 55 years of experience, serving clients from 29 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and Community Programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver Support Groups and Grief and Bereavement Support Groups. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

~written by Ernest Roy PT DPT, Quality Director PBH&HH

Pemi-Baker Community Health Improving the Lives of Parkinson’s Patients

(Plymouth)– Physical therapists at Pemi-Baker Community Health (PBCH) are movement experts who improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement.  For almost a year, PBCH’s LSVT BIG specialist, Kaity Schwartzer, PT, DPT has been helping those experiencing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease achieve amazing results, giving them renewed hope. For National Parkinson’s Awareness month, Pemi-Baker Community Health hopes to raise awareness of what can be done NOW if you are experiencing symptoms.

While you’ve likely heard of Parkinson’s disease (PD), many people don’t know exactly what the condition is or how it manifests itself. The condition can occur when there is a loss of brain cells that produce a chemical called dopamine. The four common symptoms are: tremors, limb and trunk stiffness, the slowing down of movement and weak balance or coordination.  About 500,000 people in the U.S. have Parkinson’s disease, with about 50,000 people being diagnosed each year, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

Since PD symptoms increase over time, as they become worse, patients can have trouble with simple tasks such as getting in and out of bed or the bathtub— or even walking and talking. People with PD may also experience “freezing,” where they have extreme difficulty starting to walk again after having stopped, or difficulty stopping walking once started. This may lead to falls in the home and when out in the community. Pemi-Baker Community Health can help.

LSVT BIG

LVST BIG therapy was developed specifically for people with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions. Treatments target whole body movements for activities of daily living. LSVT programs are administered by specially-trained therapists, in an intensive manner — four times per week for four weeks — and are tailored to each patient.

Therapists ask patients to move in BIG or amplified ways, whether they’re walking, buttoning shirts and pants, getting keys or change out of pockets, or writing. These lead to smoother, larger, safer movements and improved quality of life.

Today, there are over 16,000+ physical and occupational therapists trained and certified in LSVT BIG in 42 countries around the world. Here at Pemi-Baker Community Health, Kaity Schwartzer, PT, DPT is certified to administer this technique. Treatments delivered by LSVT-certified clinicians consist of the following:

  • Four LSVT-BIG sessions a week, for four consecutive weeks
  • Sessions are individual one-hour treatment sessions
  • Daily homework practice (all 30 days of the month)
  • Daily carryover assignments (all 30 days of the month)

LSVT therapy benefits

Schwartzer says LSVT BIG patients typically notice improvements in walking, getting in and out of chairs, and rolling in bed as well as overall flexibility, balance, strength and endurance. Because the program is specific to individual patients and their needs, results are based on personal goals.

As for whom it can help, Schwartzer says, “the people with Parkinson’s disease who benefit the most from LSVT BIG therapy are those with minimal to moderate symptoms but as the protocol is customizable, anyone with PD at any stage of the disease may benefit.” Schwartzer can see people who have severe PD, even those who cannot walk or stand well, as all exercises can be modified to be laying down in bed if needed. The program requires cognitive effort to change habits and reprogram the brain to make bigger, more efficient movements, so patients who have little to no cognitive problems are the most successful.

Cynthia Mathews, a LSVT BIG participant, was hoping to slow the progression of her disease and was surprised how quickly she noticed changes. “Prior to BIG program participation, my neurologist was always encouraging me to, ‘Stand up straight’, and ‘Pick up your feet’ while walking, but I saw no way to do this without thinking about what I was doing with my arms, legs, and spine every single second.  It just sounded impossible.  However, after only two weeks participation in LSVT BIG, I noted that I had regained the ability to walk with good posture and no shuffling of my feet with virtually no conscious effort whatsoever.  My husband has commented on my ‘new’ normal walk.  That has made me feel good, and has helped to maximize my motivation” said Mathews.

Assistance at Pemi-Baker Community Health

Pemi-Baker Community Health currently offers LSVT BIG therapy at their location on Boulder Point Drive in Plymouth, NH.  Prospective patients need to obtain a referral from their physician specifying LSVT BIG and Pemi-Baker Community Health.  The LSVT BIG program falls under the same health insurance coverage as typical physical therapy, check with your insurance provider for your specific policy coverages.

Benefits and Considerations for In-Home Physical Therapy

A physical therapist (PT) is a specialist trained to work with you to restore your activity, strength, and motion following an injury or surgery.  Physical therapists can teach specific exercises, stretches, and techniques and use specialized equipment to address problems you might be experiencing. Pemi-Baker Community Health’s compassionate, experienced PT’s will come to your home for your therapy and once you are able, you can transition to Outpatient Physical Therapy(OPT), where you travel to them at their clinic in Plymouth, NH.

Physical therapy care may be provided in a variety of different settings. Obviously, if you are hospitalized, your therapy may be provided by a physical therapist who works at the hospital. If you require sports therapy, you may go to an OPT clinic. Some patients have difficulty leaving the house to go to physical therapy. In-home physical therapy is the perfect solution.

So what is in-home physical therapy, and how might you benefit from PT in your home?

Physical therapists are trained to identify deficiencies in the bio-mechanics of the body. Working with a physical therapist can target specific areas of weakness in the way our bodies work. They can relieve stress and help the body function without pain.

Physical therapists are knowledgeable about surgical procedures and treatment goals and can tailor their efforts to improve your well-being. After surgical procedures, it is important that therapy is guided by the surgical procedure. Physical therapists are knowledgeable about your body’s limitations after surgery and can help ensure a successful outcome.

Stretching Tight Muscles and Joints: Stretching is vital in maintaining a good range of motion with joints and the flexibility of muscles. If you have stiff joints or tight muscles, normal activities, such as climbing stairs or reaching overhead, can be severely affected. With proper stretching, these functions can be preserved.

After an injury or surgery, scar tissue forms and soft tissue contracts. It is important to regularly stretch in these situations to ensure that scar formation does not get in the way of your rehabilitation.

Exercises to Strengthen Your Body: Strengthening exercises are performed to help you improve the function of your muscles. The goal is to improve strength, increase endurance and maintain or improve range of motion. Post-operative exercises should always be guided by your doctor and physical therapist, as there may be specific restrictions for your injury. One of the most recent developments in physical therapy is the emphasis on core strengthening and stability. The core of your body is like the foundation of your house. If you were to build your house on a weak foundation, you could risk damage and collapse. Similarly, bodies with a weak core are susceptible to acute injury and chronic overuse syndromes.

Who Benefits from In-home PT?

Anyone experiencing:

Is In-Home PT Effective?

Many people wonder if home-care physical therapy is effective. Why? Because many believe that you need expensive, heavy equipment and exercise tools to engage in an effective rehab program. This is not necessarily true. Your home-care physical therapist is trained to utilize available resources to maximize your rehab experience. He or she can also bring light equipment to your home to ensure you get the most out of your physical therapy.

How Do You Get Home care PT?

Most patients who receive home-care physical therapy are referred to the service by their physician. Your doctor can make the referral to a local visiting nurse service that offers physical therapy, and he or she can attest that home services are medically necessary. This medical necessity report will likely also state that home-care physical therapy is needed because you are unable to leave the house due to your condition or circumstances. Patients can choose who they go to for services, they just need to mention the organization to their physician. (Keep in mind if you have insurance you should always check to confirm what providers are included).

If you feel you may benefit from physical therapy at home, you can also call your local physical therapy clinic or visiting nurse association like Pemi-Baker Community Health. Those organizations can help you navigate the pathway to receiving home-care PT.

~written by Anna Swanson

The Rewards of Being a Hospice Volunteer

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021.  When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community.  A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers.  My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida.  The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure.  I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others.  PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals.  Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

Connie C.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2022-06-27T12:20:25-04:00

Connie C.

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021.  When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community.  A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers.  My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida.  The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure.  I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others.  PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals.  Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

You give of yourselves day & night without end!

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings-

Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated.  I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him.

And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME!  Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated.  You give of yourselves day & night without end!  God Bless you and thank you!

Pam O.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-06-11T07:31:14-04:00

Pam O.

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings- Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated.  I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him. And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME!  Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated.  You give of yourselves day & night without end!  God Bless you and thank you!

“My home physical therapy was fantastic.”

Pemi-Baker provided very good home therapy. All their therapists were pleasant, helpful in offering suggestions for better functioning after surgery, and practiced good health protocols. They were also very prompt in showing up for scheduled appointments.

Elizabeth B.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2019-11-07T12:26:12-05:00

Elizabeth B.

Pemi-Baker provided very good home therapy. All their therapists were pleasant, helpful in offering suggestions for better functioning after surgery, and practiced good health protocols. They were also very prompt in showing up for scheduled appointments.

“Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know.”

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

Terry W.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T12:43:19-05:00

Terry W.

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

“Everyone is so understanding supportive and kind.”

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from Pemi-Baker and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you for your excellent care and compassion.

Leila L.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T13:19:24-05:00

Leila L.

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from Pemi-Baker and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you for your excellent care and compassion.

“Pemi-Baker Hospice services provided kind, professional, competent services every step of the way-and even vaccinated us all for Covid/19!””

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

Paula W.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T12:31:13-05:00

Paula W.

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

Your courage during Covid-19 does not go unnoticed

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-06-11T06:27:43-04:00

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!
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