What to Expect at the Day Rehabilitation Program

Our Day Rehabilitation Program is able to tailor a therapeutic program to meet your specific medical needs and address your unique goals. Much of your therapy will be one-on-one. However, we know that you are also a member of a family and a community. Therefore, it is an essential part of treatment to ensure that you build self-confidence in your interaction with others for tasks in everyday life. To better help you build that confidence, we offer you the opportunity to participate in therapies with others in pairs and in small groups.

What to Expect on your First Day

On your first day at the Day Rehabilitation Program, you may have an evaluation by a physiatrist, a doctor who specializes in rehabilitation. You will also have an orientation for you and your family to discuss both your immediate needs and your long-term goals. Your treatment team, including your doctor and therapists, will help you determine realistic goals for therapy as part of your individual care plan. Later, you may also meet with a psychologist who will talk with you about your ideas for what will motivate you to achieve your goals during rehabilitation therapy. The psychologist can also help you and your family manage stress-related issues, if necessary.

A Typical Day

While every patient's treatment plan is different, therapy sessions are normally 50-60 minutes long. Your physical therapist might help you with exercises to improve strength, mobility, or balance. After a break, your speech-language pathologist might work with you on language skills or building your attention span. Your occupational therapist might work with you on exercises to improve your upper body strength and ability to perform activities of daily living. During breaks, you will have a chance to meet other people participating in day rehabilitation.

At the end of your therapy session, you might be given instructions so you can practice what you have learned. Family members are welcome to attend some of these sessions so they can help you with therapeutic exercises. When you have built up enough skills and stamina, your day might include a group field trip to a mall, library, or grocery store.

Vocational Rehabilitation

When you are ready to think about returning to work, you can consult with our vocational specialists who will provide vocational counseling and job retraining. Often, vocational experts can suggest modifications in a workplace or in tasks performed that will make returning to your previous employer possible. Our experts can also explore other career choices available within the same organization or provide retraining and help you with a wider job search.

Discharge

After completing the Day Rehabilitation Program, some people may require additional therapy in one certain discipline. At the Alexian Rehabilitation Hospital, outpatient therapy is available for individuals who need only one form of therapy (speech, physical, occupational), for a few sessions each week.