As people age, it’s common to face challenges like joint pain, reduced muscle strength, and limited stamina. Chronic conditions or past injuries can make movement more difficult, and many older adults lose confidence in what their bodies can do. Access to exercise equipment or safe spaces to stay active can also be a challenge. That’s why rehabilitative therapies, both physical and occupational, play such an important role in helping older adults rebuild strength and independence.
Participant Alice Toman knows this firsthand. After a car accident and surgery on her neck and spine, she faced a long recovery.
“I’m taking things one day at a time,” she says, noting that the regular check-ins and compassionate care from the staff have made a noticeable difference.
At LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines, licensed therapists work closely with participants like Alice to help them reach personal goals, whether it’s walking with confidence, improving balance, or simply feeling stronger. The program combines medical and social support to help older adults stay active and connected while living at home.
LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines is a PACE program --Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly-- designed to help seniors receive the care they need while continuing to live at home. By combining medical and social services, the program empowers seniors to stay independent and engaged in their communities.
For Alice, the social side of recovery has been just as important.
“Being able to socialize and just being with other people,” she says, “that’s my favorite part.”
She now visits the center five days a week, enjoying puzzles, crafts, and helping others with their projects.
“I am happiest when I feel like I am helpful to others,” she shares. “I don’t like to be inside, so being able to get out makes a huge difference.”
Her health and outlook have improved.
“I enjoy being here because everybody is so nice and kind here. They treat me well and it feels good to be treated good!”
When asked if she’d recommend the program, Alice doesn’t hesitate: “I think it would be good for anybody to join. It has helped me out a lot, and I would love to see them get the help they need. All the people who come here like it!”
She sums it up best: “My health is important to me, and I want to make sure I am doing what I need to be doing for myself. And when I’m around the other people at the center here, I feel like that’s what helps me be myself. I like coming here and getting the help to do what I need to do to make my life better with everybody’s help. I always have help.”
To learn more about LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines, call 910-429-7223 or visit lifestjosephofthepines.org.