Long-term care improving outlook for resident
Monday October 22, 2007 -- Deron Hamel
Brian Deziel came to Elizabeth Centre on May 9, three months after suffering a stroke which left him partially paralysed on his right side and unable to communicate.

But thanks to the efforts of the home’s restorative care staff and physiotherapy, Deziel no longer requires a wheelchair full time.

“We started a walking program with parallel bars, he then progressed to walking in the hallway with one person along the side and another person following behind with a wheelchair for safety reasons,” says Vicki Vincent, restorative care co-ordinator at the Val Caron long-term care home. “His endurance and balance have greatly improved.”

From there, Deziel progressed to walking 500 feet with the help of a quad cane, taking no time for a break. He also received visits from a speech-language pathologist, which has improved his communication. Deziel performs balance and strengthening exercises as part of his therapy.

“We have seen a lot of improvement with him,” says Vincent.

Deziel’s main goal, he tells Vincent, is to eventually be able to walk on his own again.

“Hopefully, we can (help him do that),” says Vincent.

Deziel continues to operate his own business and is “very motivated,” says Vincent. She adds that Deziel’s progress continues to get better.

Vincent says Deziel’s determination has playing a big part in his recovery. When restorative care staff members arrive in the morning, Deziel is always there ahead of them, waiting to start his treatment.

From Monday to Thursday, Deziel does exercises with the assistance of the home’s staff members. Deziel, adds Vincent, is a stickler for timing when it comes to his treatment.

“You can tell that he’s a businessman, because he likes to be scheduled in, and he likes to have a specific time,” says Vincent.

Adding to the physical care he has received from the home’s staff, physiotherapists and speech pathologist, Deziel has had a lot of emotional support from everyone at the home, notes Vincent.

“While he’s walking outside, we’ll always make comments on how well he is doing,” says Vincent.