Life Care of Longmont helps cardiac patient graduate to assisted living

Frank Burton was living in a local independent senior living center when he experienced an acute heart failure episode with shortness of breath, edema, weakness and confusion.

After a hospital stay, he came to Life Care Center of Longmont for physical, occupational and speech therapies.

At first, Frank needed help with bed mobility, grooming, bathing and dressing. He needed help getting in and out of bed and could only walk 72 feet at a time with a walker.

The therapy team worked with Frank six days a week to help him reach his goals and recover as much independence as possible. PT and OT used the OmniCycle® machine with foot pedals and hand cranks to help him exercise and build up endurance while maintaining cardiac precautions.

During his therapy program, Frank moved into an assisted living apartment next door at The Bridge at Longmont, and therapists did treatment sessions with him in his room to make sure he was successful.

“Frank showed up to therapy every day with a positive attitude and a funny story to tell,” said Ashley Krill, physical therapist assistant.

“My whole object in being here was to gain my strength back, and they certainly helped with that,” Frank shared, referring to Life Care’s therapists.

When Frank completed his therapy program, he was able to walk independently with a walker, dress himself and handle all grooming and hygiene by himself.