Heart attack patient recovers at Life Care Center of Elizabethton

After a heart attack, Elizabeth Horton needed rehabilitation to recover her independence, and Life Care Center of Elizabethton, Tennessee, was there to help her.

When Horton arrived at the rehab and skilled nursing center on Nov. 4, 2019, she needed moderate assistance for bathing and dressing, as well as some assistance with walking, bed mobility, transfers, daily grooming tasks and balance.

Physical therapists addressed Horton's mobility and balance with strengthening exercises for her upper and lower body. Occupational therapists trained her in her self-care activities like dressing and showering.

"I am feeling much better and stronger than when I got here," said Horton. "The rehab team did a good job explaining all my goals and exercises to me. I feel confident in returning home. This is a good team here, and I thank all the nursing staff too."

Horton returned home on Nov. 21, independent in most of her mobility and at a supervision level for standing balance. For her self-care activities, she is at a supervision level for bathing and medication management but can take care of her grooming and dressing herself.