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Regaining Independence: Reablement at Mildmay Hospital

A physiotherapist helping a wheelchair user to stand

At Mildmay, we know that the majority of our patients face multiple, complex challenges.


HIV/AIDS and comorbidities related to homelessness and rough sleeping can significantly impact a person's ability to manage daily activities. That is where reablement comes in. Reablement is a holistic approach to rehabilitation that focuses on helping patients regain or improve their functional abilities for independent living.



How Does Reablement Work?


We tailor our rehabilitation programmes to each patient's specific and complex needs. This might involve:


  • Physical Therapy: Regaining strength, coordination, and mobility through exercises and techniques, addressing issues like deconditioning due to ill health gained from having to sleep rough, or complications from HIV.

  • Occupational Therapy: Learning or re-learning skills for daily tasks like dressing, bathing, cooking, and medication management.

  • Speech and Language Therapy: Improving communication and swallowing abilities, especially if affected by neurological complications.

  • Cognitive Rehabilitation: Addressing memory, thinking, and problem-solving difficulties that may arise from HIV, substance abuse, or head injuries often associated with homelessness.

  • Mental Health Support: Providing guidance on managing stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma commonly experienced by our patient population.



Beyond Physical Abilities:


Reablement at Mildmay goes beyond just physical rehabilitation. We understand the mental and emotional impact of complex medical conditions and social circumstances. We incorporate support for these aspects as well, including:


  • Social Work Services: Connecting patients with resources and support networks, including housing assistance and addiction treatment programmes.

  • Therapeutic support: Helping patients manage emotional challenges, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and address any trauma they may have experienced.



The Importance of Reablement:


Reablement empowers patients to live as independently as possible, improving their overall quality of life and confidence. By regaining functional abilities, patients can manage their daily routines, participate in activities they enjoy, and live a more fulfilling life.



Your Support Makes all the Difference


The road to regaining independence can be long, but at Mildmay, we're committed to helping patients with complex challenges take back control of their lives. The successful outcomes our patients achieve are a testament to their willingness to succeed, the dedication and skill of our multidisciplinary team and the effectiveness of our approach. However, it is only your generous donations that allow us to provide the necessary resources and equipment to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.