When an 84-year-old man with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy sustained a fall resulting in tibial and fibular fractures, his functional mobility declined sharply and his spouse became overwhelmed with increased caregiving demands she couldn’t safely manage alone. This compelling case report from the Home Health Section’s Research Corner demonstrates how targeted patient and caregiver training provided by a home health physical therapist over just seven visits transformed their situation. Through strategic use of cost-effective equipment—including a friction-reducing Sally Slide® transfer sheet ($5), gait belt (under $20), and Theraband® (under $10)—the caregiver gained independence and confidence in performing bed mobility tasks and transfers that had previously required two-person assistance. By the 30-day reassessment, the patient’s strength had improved, his spouse could independently mobilize him safely, and his quality of life dramatically increased as he regained the ability to use the commode regularly and enjoy time outdoors in his wheelchair. This case underscores an essential message for home health providers: with proper training, body mechanics education, and strategic low-cost equipment, physical therapists can meaningfully reduce caregiver burden while improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Alumni News
Patient and Caregiver Training for an 84-Year Old Man Tibial/Fibular Fracture: A Case Report
