Community & Business
10 July, 2024
New safe space for hospital rehab
OLDER patients at Mareeba Hospital can now benefit from rehabilitation treatments in a dedicated space, resulting in more effective care.
Struggling with no private rehabilitation spaces in the Older Persons Evaluation Rehabilitation and Assessment ward (OPERA), a space was identified in the ward to be used as a therapy room.
The room is now in use following a successful three-month trial involving nearly 40 patients.
Project champion and Mareeba Hospital allied health assistant Di Spencer said staff and patients were thrilled with the new space, which includes parallel bars and games to support older patients with their mobility following illness or surgery.
“The team helps to rehabilitate our elderly patients across physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dietetics and speech therapy, so they can remain as independent and empowered as they possibly can be,” she said.
“It is a space where patients feel more comfortable discussing private matters. Any concerns can be raised, and patients can express wishes for life-changing matters.
“Group and individual therapies are now held in the room. We do therapy and finish with fun activities such as balloon games or quoits, which the patients really enjoy.”
