Aug 14, 2023
Leslie is staying active with his therapy services
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Fifty-nine-year-old Leslie has been accessing Northcott’s services for over 20 years. He is a wheelchair user and finds joy in water and movement.
Leslie’s goals
Leslie’s primary goal is to live an independent life.
I want to be as fit as I can be. Even if no one is around, I want to be able to take care of myself. That’s why I enjoy physiotherapy. I am able to practice using my muscles so I can move as independently as I can, for as long as I can.
Leslie
Northcott’s physiotherapists work with individuals and those who support them to achieve their physical goals in a range of settings such as at home, classroom, workplace, or the community.
Dianne, Leslie’s Physiotherapist at Northcott says, “ The initial 1:1 physio sessions played an important part in improving Leslie’s general posture and strength. It also re-established his confidence while walking with his crutches. He now works with an Allied Health Assistant (AHA), practicing and extending his ‘gym’ work with physio guidance”.
“At my age, if you don’t use it you lose it. With Northcott I practice walking, flexibility, balance, and coordination”, explains Leslie.
A change in location
Recently, Leslie had to move homes. The change in location made him quite nervous as he was worried about navigating unfamiliar environments. Thanks to regular physiotherapy sessions with Northcott, Leslie now feels more confident moving around his new home and suburb.
What’s next for Leslie?
Leslie and his therapists are looking to get a power assist for Leslie’s manual wheelchair. If he gets this he can go further and faster without fatiguing.
Leslie enjoys coming to Northcott because he gets to mix with different people and learn new skills. He hopes to continue learning new skills and living in the moment.
He says, “I take each day as it comes, because you never know what’s around the corner. Just have to enjoy life the best you can, one day at a time.”
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