Life Care Center of Omaha helps Wendell Perkins regain independence

On March 2, 2019, Wendell Perkins arrived at Life Care Center of Omaha, Nebraska, for help recovering from pneumonia, exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and spinal compression.

When he arrived, Wendell needed substantial assistance for all his self-care and functional mobility.

Wendell took part in physical and occupational therapies. He started seeing the facility’s certified hand therapist, who improved his hand function enough to use grab bars and walkers more efficiently, as well as dress himself. Over time, physical therapists were able to train him in walking, balance and even stairs. His end goal? To return home and be able to take care of himself during the day while his wife works.

“Wendell just doesn’t quit trying,” said Angie Landauer, director of rehabilitation services. “He was open-minded, did his home exercises faithfully and worked hard even when he’d rather not.”

The result was that Wendell indeed finally returned home on May 29, 2020.

“I don’t have any complaints,” Wendell shared. “I was treated really good. Having someone like you all [therapists] believe I could do it made me think, ‘Gee, maybe I can do it!’ You pushing me to do just one more thing at a time for myself got me here. If it wasn’t for you and your excellent caring and positive energy, I wouldn’t have made it.”