Goals and motivation can be difficult to achieve for clients. It can be challenging for them to find the motivation and determination to fulfill their dreams. As physical therapist at First State Rehab at Home we strive to be patient advocates and guide our clients to feel confident and meet and exceed their goals. But how exactly do physical therapists motivate their clients?
Everything starts with the introduction:
Upon meeting someone for the first time we begin by building rapport and meaningful relationships. This is achieved by active listening, empathy, honesty and understanding. Seeing our patients in their own home is also another added benefit. People often feel more comfortable and relaxed at home. We also see first hand the daily challenges they experience. After we start to know more about our clients and their goals, we can begin to find the best way to nurture, educate and help them.
Finding goals and motivation:
One of the first things we do is find out what goals our clients have, if any. Some people may not initially know what they want. Throughout therapy sessions we talk, listen and educate. With meaningful discussions, we get a better picture of what our patients want or would like to see improved. Together we establish realistic attainable goals and implement a treatment plan. Another important step is finding out what motivates them and helping them keep that momentum. Some people find it difficult to find the determination or motivation to pursue their dream or goal. This is common for those who have lost mobility, stamina, strength and thus, decreased physical activity or things the things they used to enjoy doing are harder. Sometimes setting small attainable goals is an important first step before pursuing bigger more challenging objectives. Very often simply making a connection with someone, listening and empathizing is the most important first step to helping someone feel better about themselves and their progress.
Patient advocacy is a continuous process:
Having the same therapist is crucial in maintaining continuity, consistency, rapport and optimal outcomes. The therapist is able to create a plan of care and see noticeable improvements throughout the therapy sessions. If either the therapist or client are not seeing improvements or feels like there are obstacles, together it can be addressed and discussed. Clients may also be hard on themselves and feel like they are not making enough improvements or not achieving their goals fast enough. This is especially true in today’s instant gratification world and is both common and understandable. Through teamwork and cooperation, the physical therapist can get things back on the right track. Therapy is a dynamic process that requires patience and dedication!
Conclusion:
Physical therapy is so much more than just exercises. It is a team effort to find goals and motivation and be patient advocates. Sometimes the smallest things make the biggest impacts. To learn more about the benefits of in-home physical therapy, call First State Rehab at Home today! 302-304-9729. You can also fill out our Contact form. We would be happy to answer any questions. We see clients in New Castle County DE, Kent County DE and Delaware County PA.
In Delaware County, Pennsylvania, we serve: Glen Mills, Boothwyn, Chester, Media, Newtown Square, Garnet Valley, Concordville, Aston, Broomall, Springfield, just to name a few.
Tags: In Home Physical Therapy, First State Rehab at Home, telehealth physical therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical therapist, Physical Therapy Services
