The Case

Read below to see how our LiveWell member overcame the odds leading to a successfully recovering and overall independent life today. 

• 83-year-old gentleman
• Recovering from triple bypass surgery
• Previously healthy, but was left in a state of disarray following incident
  and surgery

Collaborative Effort 

Our case study here follows a gentleman who needed to make drastic changes in order to survive. After a successful triple bypass surgery, and discharge from physical therapy, he and his wife decided it would be best to implement an exercise routine. We were called in at the same time home health was completing service. In fact, we were able to work with the home health therapist and nurse. We were able to understand the starting point in greater detail. From the start we were destined to succeed. Healthcare is best utilized with a collaborative approach. This man went from hospital to home health to rehabilitation to private services in order to succeed.

What are the odds? 

Our client was also undergoing cardiac rehabilitation provided by the hospital. Cardiac rehabilitation would occur three times a week, while we focused on strength, balance and posture twice weekly. In collaboration with the cardiac rehabilitation team, we created a strength program that would run hand in hand.  In order to maximize benefit we had to address  multiple systems (cardiac and musculoskeletal). Not only did we, as a team, need to stress the cardiac system in a way to create efficiency, but we also needed to add a great amount of strength after an extended hospital stay.

Hospital Stays 

An individual who spends a period of time in the hospital has endured a great deal of muscle atrophy, this is a red flag for a number of reasons. In many instances, this is when individuals start the downward spiral of chronic health conditions. Lack of motivation and energy can be crippling after enduring a traumatic surgery. This is the point in which many individuals ‘age’ rapidly, and find themselves looking for greater care. However, our client was not of the norm, he displayed strength, courage and a positive attitude the entire time.

Following successful program adherence with supervised cardiac rehabilitation this particular individual continues to complete his cardiorespiratory fitness asked of him during his rehab. He also continues with a strength program supervised by a member of our team.

Overcoming the Odds Leads to Success 

One of our main goals was to be back on the course within six months, we
accomplished just that in three months. Today this particular individual is
living a greater life than his life prior to surgery. He is in better shape,
healthier, happier, and even plays more and more golf each week.

The underlying theme behind this story is dedication. Our client, the rehab
team, and our team were all dedicated to providing this man a greater quality of life. At all levels, we succeeded, and continue to succeed week after week. We are thrilled to see this gentleman and his wife living independently,  enjoying their life without the looming fear of added complications.

The best medicine for the mind, body and spirit, is exercise itself!