How to Find a Good Physical Therapist for Parkinson’s Patients
Accessible Home Health Care
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Accessible Home Health Care
Jan 10, 2024
Florida - Southwest
Email US
Click to Email Us
Exercise is necessary for everyone! Research has shown that regular exercise with the help of a physical therapist can improve the quality of life for Parkinson’s patients. As the second most common neurological disorder, Parkinson’s disease affects a lot of patients and their families. Many of these families are seeking in home physical therapy services to help their loved ones manage their symptoms.
Knowing your loved one is getting the best physical therapy at home can help put your mind at ease. Receiving care from the comfort of home gives your loved one the ability to live their life to the fullest. To ensure your loved one is getting the care they need, here are the steps you should know to make sure you’ve found a good physical therapist.
Seek a Licensed Practitioner
Only a licensed physical therapist or physical therapy assistant should be providing in home care to your loved one. Remember, state licensure is required in the U.S. for physical therapy practices, and each state has an agency that oversees regulations. If you have questions about licensing or would like to verify that your loved one’s physical therapist has a license, you can do so by contacting the in home care provider or checking the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
Know Who You Need on Your Team
Licensed physical therapists and physical therapy assistants perform many of the same basic responsibilities, and both can be of great help to patients. However, their level of education and responsibilities do differ. Understanding the duties and education requirements to be a practicing physical therapist or physical therapy assistant can help you feel confident when selecting a caregiver you can trust to provide great care for your loved one.
Here’s the breakdown of the educational requirements to be a physical therapist or a physical therapy assistant and their responsibilities:
Education
Physical Therapist (PT
- Postgraduate professional degrees
- Most have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
- DPT degree generally requires prerequisites like anatomy, biology, chemistry, and physiology
Physical Therapist Assistant
- Generally, states require an associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy program
- Programs involve first-hand clinical experience and academic coursework
Certification and Licensing
Physical Therapist (PT
- States require PTs to have a physical therapist license to practice
- Must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination or state-administered exam
- Some PTs choose to be certified in a clinical specialty, and need to pass additional exams
Physical Therapist Assistant
- Must graduate from an accredited physical therapy assistance program
- Need to have passed the Physical National Physical Therapy Exam
- Some states require an additional state-administered exam
Duties
Physical Therapist (PT
- Diagnose and deliver care to individuals
- Develop rehabilitation plans for patients
- Teach stretches, exercises, and hands-on therapy
Physical Therapist Assistant
- Determine the level of patient injuries and report findings to a physical therapist
- Educate the patient about what to do post-treatment
- Help with exercises and stretches
- Instruct patients how to use equipment and devices
Ask About the Therapist’s Experience with Parkinson’s
All licensed physical therapists should be able to assist Parkinson’s patients, but some are more prepared than others. During an interview, you should ask the home care provider or physical therapist about their experience with Parkinson’s disease. For example, ask the physical therapist if they have a history of treating people with neurological disorders, have completed a residency or fellowship in neurological physical therapy, or have achieved additional certifications for Parkinson’s care.
Here are some examples of certifications that are available for physical therapists for Parkinson’s that you should ask about:
- LSTV BIG Program
- LSVT® LOUD Program
- PWR!Moves™ Trained Therapist
- Parkinson’s Disease: A Practical Approach to Evaluation & Treatment for the Physical Therapist
Make Sure Your Therapist is Up-to-Date
Since there is no standard treatment for Parkinson’s disease, treatment is based on your loved one’s symptoms. New methods for how to manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s are constantly on the horizon, so you should ask the physical therapist how they stay up-to-date and how they use best practices to provide care.
Good physical therapists will be able to answer these questions by naming scientific journals they read, courses they have taken, and certifications they have received. Great physical therapists will be able to answer your questions and also explain to you how their up-to-date knowledge and methods will benefit your loved one.
Find a Compassionate Person
Aside from their training and credentials, you should look for a physical therapist who has compassion and fosters good working relations with the whole care team, especially you and your loved one. You want a physical therapist who not only knows how to handle the specifics of Parkinson’s treatment, but also takes account of the whole person, not just their specific condition or injury. A good physical therapist will listen to your loved one’s needs, follow through with the plan of care, and keep you updated on their treatment.
If your loved one has a physical therapist you are unhappy with, you have the right to choose a new one. In the U.S., you and your loved one have the right to contact a physical therapist for in home care without a physician’s referral and select one that is right for your needs. If you are interested in finding a new trained and certified physical therapist or physical therapy assistant to provide in home physical therapy, we can help.
Contact us to get in touch with a licensed and compassionate physical therapist for Parkinson’s care.
- To view the original version of this article visit www.accessiblehomehealthcare.com/blog/how-to-find-good-physical-therapist-parkinsons-patients
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
Other Articles You May Like
Behind the Scenes of Professional Caregiving
Professional caregiving is a noble and gratifying career that requires dedication, compassion, and a commitment to providing quality care and support to aging, ill, and disabled individuals. While the role of a caregiver may seem straightforward to the uninitiated, a lot goes on behind the scenes that shapes the day-to-day experiences of these essential healthcare workers. Read on to explore what it means to be a professional caregiver in Cape Coral, including caregivers who work through a caregiving agency.Common Professional Caregiving Job TitlesNearly five million strong, professional caregivers work in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, residential care facilities, and private residences. There are several different types of professional caregivers, each specializing in a specific area of care to meet the diverse needs of their clients.Here are some of the more common ones:Home Health Aides (HHAs): While working with nurses and therapists, these professionals provide personalized care and support to individuals in their homes. HHAs assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication reminders.Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses to provide basic healthcare services to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare environments. A CANs responsibilities may include feeding and mobility assistance, personal care, and monitoring client vital signs.Personal Care Aides (PCAs): PCAs offer non-medical assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions. These direct caregivers assist clients with personal care tasks ranging from grooming and toileting to meal preparation and companionship.Agency Caregivers: Many professional caregivers, especially CNAs, fall within this category. Agency-supplied caregivers are often contracted out to nursing homes on a short-term basis, while others work in private residences or hospices.Professional Caregiving Requires Training and PreparationOne of the fundamental aspects of professional caregiving is the comprehensive training and preparation involved. Aspiring caregivers undergo training programs that cover a wide range of topics, including basic caregiving skills, communication techniques, infection control protocols, and more. This intensive training equips caregivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective care to their clients.Once certified, caregivers can take advantage of continuing education and professional development opportunities that help them hone their skills and stay current with best practices. This continuous learning process allows caregivers to adapt to their clients changing needs and provide a high level of care in all types of settings.The Role of Professional Caregiving Agencies in Cape CoralCaregivers who work through an agency can expect to receive valuable support and resources to help them succeed in their roles. Caregiving agencies typically have dedicated support staff, including schedulers, coordinators, trainers, and supervisors, who work closely with caregivers to ensure they have the tools and resources they need to thrive in their roles.Schedulers play a vital role in matching caregivers with clients based on their skills, availability, and preferences. By carefully coordinating schedules and assignments, schedulers help ensure caregivers can provide consistent and reliable care to their clients while enjoying a healthy work-life balance. Coordinators serve as a point of contact for caregivers, offering guidance, support, and assistance with any challenges they may encounter while on the job.Caregiving is All About RelationshipsIn addition to collaborating with colleagues and supervisors, working closely with clients and their families is essential for those in the caregiving profession. Caregivers must establish strong relationships with their clients, providing physical care, emotional support, and companionship. Building trust and rapport with clients is essential for creating a positive caregiving experience and fostering a sense of security and well-being.Professional caregivers are also required to interact with family caregivers, many of whom play a vital role in the caregiving process, providing valuable insights into their loved ones preferences, routines, and medical history. Caregivers work closely with families to create personalized care plans that address each clients unique needs and preferences. Maintaining open communication and involving families empowers caregivers to provide their clients with the best care and support possible.The Challenges and Rewards of Professional CaregivingProfessional caregiving requires the ability to navigate a range of emotions, situations, and responsibilities daily. Depending on the day, caregivers may encounter hurdles like managing complex medical conditions, dealing with behavioral issues, and coping with the emotional toll of caring for clients facing significant health challenges including end-of-life trials.Despite these challenges, professional caregiving is also incredibly rewarding, offering caregivers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. The relationships caregivers build with clients are often deeply rooted and profound, providing a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond the typical job. Caregivers witness firsthand the positive impact of their care and support, creating lasting bonds that enrich both their lives and the lives of others in the community.Caregiving and Self-Care: A Winning CombinationWhile it is highly gratifying, caregiving can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Caregivers must prioritize self-care to maintain their health and well-being, empowering them to continue providing the top-notch care and support their clients deserve.Implementing self-care best practices, including regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate rest, and stress management techniques, can help caregivers maintain their energy levels and emotional resilience. When necessary, caregivers should seek support from colleagues, supervisors, and loved ones, as well as take advantage of counseling services or support groups.In conclusion, professional caregiving is a noble and gratifying career that requires a unique combination of skills, compassion, and dedication. Caregivers play a vital role while serving on the frontlines of the American healthcare system, assisting aging, ill, and disabled individuals. Behind the scenes of professional caregiving lies a world of training, support, resources, and personal connections that shape the experiences of caregivers everywhere. Take a moment today to thank a caregiver in your life. Theyll be glad you did!Is Professional Caregiving Your Career Calling? Lets Have a Conversation.Whether you are new to the caregiving game or a seasoned pro, Home Instead in Cape Coral would love to speak with you. At Home Instead Cape Coral, we understand that our caregivers are the lifeblood of our organization. Due to our expanding client load, we are currently seeking qualified candidates to fill several exciting caregiving positions. While proudly serving the Cape Coral, Alva, Boca Grande, Bokeelia, Burnt Store Marina, Matlacha, and North Captiva Island communities, we support clients and families with compassionate home care services, including Alzheimers and Dementia Care, Arthritis Care, Companionship Care, Diabetes Care, Elder Care, Home Helper Services, Hospice Care, Meals and Nutrition, Personal Care, Respite Care, 24-Hour Home Care, and Transportation.As a highly valued member of the Home Instead Cape Coral team, youll enjoy a fast-paced, positive work environment where open communication is valued and hard work is rewarded. We also offer competitive pay, flexible scheduling, ongoing caregiver training, and career advancement opportunities galore. No matter your experience level or education, wed love to hear from you! To learn more about Home Instead Cape Coral and our dynamic professional caregiving jobs, visit us now at www.homeinsteadswfl.com.
What Does Homeowners' Insurance Cover?
For those who own a home in Florida, having a good grasp of homeowners' insurance is essential. It not only offers peace of mind but also safeguards one of your most significant investments. At LP Insurance Solutions, we specialize in guiding you through the intricacies of homeowners' insurance. This detailed guide will address common queries like what homeowners' insurance entails, its cost implications, and specific information on typical damages. Let's review the fundamentals of homeowners' insurance to ensure you're well-informed and adequately shielded.What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?Homeowners' insurance is created to protect against various risks and damages that your property may encounter. The coverage usually encompasses: Dwelling Coverage: This safeguards the structure of your house, encompassing the roof, walls, and installed appliances. Should perils like fire, windstorms, or hail cause damage to your home, dwelling coverage assists in covering repair costs or reconstruction. Other Structures Coverage: This segment of the policy addresses structures not connected to your home, such as detached garages, sheds, or fences. Personal Property Coverage: This insurance safeguards your personal possessions within your house, such as furniture, electronics, clothes, and other items. If any of these belongings are stolen or damaged due to a covered incident, this coverage assists in replacing them. Liability Protection: This is essential in case someone gets injured on your property or if you accidentally harm someone else's property. It covers legal expenses and potential settlements. Additional Living Expenses (ALE): In the event that your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered incident, ALE covers the expenses for temporary housing, food, and other living costs while your home is being repaired. For more details on the specific coverages, visit our homeowners' insurance coverage page.How Much is Homeowners Insurance?The cost of homeowners' insurance can vary depending on several factors: Location: Living in Cape Coral, Florida, near the coast can impact premiums due to the risks associated with hurricanes and flooding. Home Value and Construction: The size, age, and building materials used in constructing your home significantly influence insurance costs. Coverage Limits and Deductibles: Higher coverage limits and lower deductibles lead to higher premiums. Personal Factors: Your credit score, claims history, as well as safety features like security systems and smoke detectors, can affect the overall cost of insurance. On average, Florida homeowners could expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 per year for a standard insurance policy. However, the actual cost may vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned earlier. To get a more accurate quote, visit our homeowners' insurance cost page or contact LP Insurance Solutions.
Avow Care Services Selected by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to Test Medicare Dementia Care Model
Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model Aims to Increase Care Coordination, Support for CaregiversNAPLES, FL (July 10, 2024) Today, Avow Care Services announced they have been selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to participate in a new Medicare alternative payment model designed to support people living with dementia and their caregivers. Under CMS Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model, Avow will be one of almost 400 participants building Dementia Care Programs (DCPs) across the country, working to increase care coordination and improve access to services and supports, including respite care, for people living with dementia and their caregivers.CMS is excited to partner with Avow under the GUIDE Model, said CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. GUIDE is a new approach to how Medicare will pay for the care of people living with dementia. The GUIDE participants are envisioning new ways to support not only people living with dementia, but also to reduce strain on the people who care for them, so that more Americans can remain in their homes and communities, rather than in institutions.Launched on July 1, 2024, the GUIDE Model will test a new payment approach for key supportive services furnished to people living with dementia, including: comprehensive, person-centered assessments and care plans; care coordination; 24/7 access to an interdisciplinary care team member or help line; and certain respite services to support caregivers. People with dementia and their caregivers will have the assistance and support of a Care Navigator to help them access clinical and non-clinical services such as meals and transportation through community-based organizations."Our acceptance into the GUIDE Model emphasizes Avow's commitment to excellence in dementia care and our dedication to the communities we serve," said Jaysen Roa, President and CEO of Avow, Inc. "We are eager to implement this model, which aligns with our mission to offer support not only to our patients but also to their caregivers, enhancing both their well-being and quality of life."Avow participation in the GUIDE Model will help people living with dementia and their caregivers have access to education and support, such as training programs on best practices for caring for a loved one living with dementia. The GUIDE Model also provides respite services for certain people, enabling caregivers to take temporary breaks from their caregiving responsibilities. Respite is being tested under the GUIDE Model to assess its effect on helping caregivers continue to care for their loved ones at home, preventing or delaying the need for facility care.GUIDE Participants represent a wide range of health care providers, including large academic medical centers, small group practices, community-based organizations, health systems, hospice agencies, and other practices.This model delivers on a promise in the Biden Administrations Executive Order on Increasing Access to High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers and aligns with the National Plan to Address Alzheimers DiseaseAbout Avow: Avow was founded in 1983 as Collier County's original, nonprofit hospice. Today, Avows nonprofit companies provide palliative care for adults and children facing chronic or serious illness and hospice care and bereavement support services for children and adults. To learn more about the scope of services provided by Avow, call 239-261-4404 or visit our website.