Anything that involves hopping in a car makes some older adults think twice. Whether it’s due to lack of transportation, physical limitations or just trying to muster enough mental motivation, driving—and even riding along—is not always a simple matter.

“I wish we’d had home physical therapy when my mom was alive,” said Lynn Peier, founder of Able Care Mobile Therapy. “She would’ve gotten stronger and more independent.”

After being discharged from the hospital, Peier’s mother was supposed to continue with physical therapy, but she balked at the idea of depending on someone else for transportation.

“She didn’t want to bother me for rides to the doctor, to church, for shopping and therapy, so she left the therapy out,” said Peier, 57. 

HOME IS THERAPEUTIC

When Peier started Able Care Mobile Therapy in 2013, it was the first outpatient rehabilitation service in Colorado Springs. 

Able Care is an out-patient rehabilitation group providing compassionate physical and occupational therapy house calls to patients. Therapists have a range of experience, education, skills and specialized certifications, which helps ensure that every patient receives the individualized care they need. 

“Our therapists specialize in fall prevention, pain relief, post-operative therapy, help with activities of daily living, range of motion and equipment assessments all in the comfort of the patient’s home,” Peier added. 

Therapy at home helps with the rehab and recovery process after an injury or hospital stay, which greatly improves patient quality of life. 

Able Care therapists also help patients develop and maintain their independence by assessing their living situation to determine if stair lifts, ramps, accessible systems or home modifications are needed.

Additionally, they offer end-of-life coping skills along with cognitive care, and can co-treat along with hospice to make a patient more comfortable.  

CONNECTING WITH LOCAL ALLIES

Out of the 25 therapists that work for Able Care, seven are in Colorado Springs and the rest are in Denver. 

“Administrator extraordinaire” Felicia Stockstill, 53, has worked with Peier for two years following a 35-year career in the medical field. 

“In 2021, I was on severe burnout,” said Stockstill. “Now I wake up every day with a brand-new purpose and a spring in my step.” 

One of the positives outcomes of COVID-19 is the growing number of in-home services, such as mobile dentists, speech therapists and more. 

“Hospitals are now discharging patients sooner and sooner,” Peier lamented, “and we want to be ready to provide any service needed to our in-home patients.” 

Able Care wants to expand their community focus by working with locally run home health agencies and organizations that offer companion care and free services, in addition to those that take private pay and Medicaid. 

In the office, Stockstill has a Rolodex of trusted handyman contacts. 

“Since COVID set us free, we have had fun getting to know others in our local community,” Peier said. “We know who to refer to and we know who will be on your doorstep.”

HOMEBOUND STATUS NOT REQUIRED

In Colorado, residents may seek physical therapy without a doctor’s referral. Services are covered under Medicaid, Medicare Part B and many PPO insurances. 

“Homebound” status is not required for physical therapy house calls, and Able Care completes all the paperwork.

To reach Able Care Mobile Therapy with questions about services or therapists, or to learn how to get started with a personalized plan of care, call 719-629-6796 or look up AbleCareTherapy.com.