Comprehensive Support for Physical Recovery and Emotional Resilience
The client was referred to HCML in June 2024 following a road traffic collision that resulted in a significant back injury. The incident, combined with pre-existing health conditions and the subsequent loss of her husband, created complex physical and emotional challenges. HCML provided coordinated, multidisciplinary support to aid the client’s physical recovery, manage emotional distress, and help her regain independence and re-engage with her community.
Immediate Needs Assessment
- The client was referred to HCML in June 2024 following a road traffic collision.
- Back Injury and Physical Function: The client was struggling with a back injury, which significantly limited their ability to drive, engage socially, and complete activities of daily living (ADLs).
- Social Engagement: A key goal for the client was to return to social activities within their retirement community, which had previously been a meaningful part of their routine.
- Cognitive and Emotional Concerns: The client expressed concern about understanding medical information, particularly regarding the outcome of her surgery, and required support to navigate these discussions.
- Pre-existing Conditions: The client had pre-existing health conditions, including hypothyroidism, which were impacting her rehabilitation progress and required review.
- Bereavement: During the rehabilitation process, the client’s husband sadly passed away. She faced emotional and practical challenges, particularly as her injuries had limited her ability to care for him in his final days.
HCML support
Physiotherapy was arranged to improve the client’s physical range of movement and support her recovery from the back injury.
Occupational therapy input was provided to develop a graded plan for increasing social activity and building confidence in navigating public transport.
To support gradual independence and reduce physical strain, domestic support was arranged in the form of cleaners and a gardener. This allowed the client to focus on her recovery while maintaining a safe and manageable home environment.
Psychological support was provided to help the client manage the emotional impact of the incident, her injuries, and the subsequent bereavement.
I liaised closely with the client’s GP to ensure appropriate review and support for her pre-existing conditions, including hypothyroidism, which had been affecting her energy levels and overall rehabilitation engagement.
To support the client’s understanding of her medical care, I attended an appointment with her at King’s Hospital. This ensured she received clear explanations and felt supported in processing the results of her surgery.
Following the death of her husband, I provided additional emotional and practical support, helping her navigate this difficult period while continuing to progress with her rehabilitation goals.
Outcome
The client has made excellent progress and is now independently attending Pilates and participating in social groups four times a week. She is fully independent with both activities of daily living (ADLs) and domestic activities of daily living (DADLs).
She has resumed a meaningful role within her family, regularly caring for her great-grandson at weekends, and is confidently travelling independently—now able to take train journeys of over an hour.