Therapy At Your Door

Posted on 01/16/23 by Beth in Community News

Ruth Friedman has been a resident of Wiggins Place for about three years, moving from an apartment just before the pandemic. Over that time, her independent living has become more assisted living, but Ruth has been able to cope with the changes. “I still drive and am able to get around on my own, which is very nice,” she says.

When Ruth suffered a fall in September last year, she was concerned about maintaining her independence. “I broke my wrist, and I was glad that I didn’t need surgery. But they discovered that I was anemic. It was a fortunate diagnosis, because if I hadn’t had the fall, they might not have discovered the underlying problem. I would have just gone around complaining that I was old and tired.” She adds with a laugh, “and that’s not who I ever want to be.”

Once the source of her balance issues was diagnosed, Ruth was able to get the help she needed. In addition to occupational therapy for her wrist, she received physical therapy for her balance and posture. Menorah Park offers therapy at our campus residences, so residents don’t have to leave their building to take advantage of this opportunity. All services are provided by dedicated staff members who are invested in the success of our community.

“It has worked out really well for me,” Ruth says. “I’ve seen a definite improvement. For a while I was afraid to walk because I was afraid of falling. Now I’m really going back to being myself.”

Personal training can also be provided by the exercise team, just as the Peter B. Lewis Aquatic & Therapy Center does for the community-at-large. This helps residents to exercise safely and effectively and to stay motivated. The individual attention and ongoing relationships help residents feel more comfortable and confident, which leads to greater success in their wellness goals.

“I’m very impressed by all of the therapists that I work with,” says Ruth. “They started from the ground up, looked at each of my problems and what I needed to do to improve. I cannot speak highly enough of the staff. Eran, Kathleen and Colleen have been fantastic. When someone is individually helping you to do exercise and therapy correctly, you get the most out of it.”

Families and residents may email Marla Pease at mpease@menorahpark.org, or contact the Peter B. Lewis Aquatic & Therapy Center at 216-595-7345 to help coordinate at our Beachwood and Chagrin Valley assisted and independent living locations.

Community members, families and residents may also contact the Peter B. Lewis Center therapists for excellent speech, occupational, and land-based and aquatic physical therapy as well as to support ongoing fitness needs at the Center.