Marie Zappe, a long-term resident at Life Care Center of Valparaiso, feels that she has been given a new lease on life.
This autumn, Zappe acquired COVID-19 and had to go to the hospital for treatment. She survived but returned to the facility on Nov. 23 very weak. She couldn’t walk, get out of bed, stand up or even propel herself in a wheelchair, and she needed extensive assistance with bathing and dressing.
That is when Zappe began physical and occupational therapy. Five days a week, she took part in therapy sessions designed to help her get stronger and regain as much independence as possible. She trained in her activities of daily living (or self-care), balance recovery techniques, bed mobility, transfers (such as from the bed to a wheelchair) and walking. She also used the OmniCycle® seated exercise machine to build endurance and strength, as well as the SCIFIT® stepper.
“Marie is a hard worker who is always willing to participate and is motivated,” said Amy Brickner, physical therapist assistant.
Amanda Blade, occupational therapist, added, “She is willing to try any treatment approach to get better.”
Zappe completed her therapy program on Feb. 19. She is now independent in her bed mobility and dressing and at a supervision level for walking, transfers, sitting balance and bathing.
“They gave me a new way of life,” said Zappe. “I’m able to walk again. I enjoy the therapy girls. They are fantastic. They got me all straightened out. I’m very happy here. Everyone is nice.”
Life Care Center of Valparaiso, located at 3405 N. Campbell Road, is one of 15 skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities in Indiana managed by Life Care Centers of America.
Founded in 1976, Life Care is a nationwide health care company. With headquarters in Cleveland, Tennessee, Life Care manages more than 200 nursing, post-acute and Alzheimer’s centers in 28 states. For more information about Life Care, visit lcca.com.
