Maximizing Recovery and Independence
At Toronto Rehab, we focus on helping individuals to rebuild their lives and regain their independence as much as possible.
Each person admitted to Toronto Rehab’s Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program receives an individualized program of assessment, therapy, education and psychosocial support.
Our interprofessional health care team works closely with individuals and their families to determine their needs and abilities. Patients play an active role in determining their goals and participating in rehabilitation to achieve them.
Individualized Care for Better Outcomes
Individuals attend daily therapy sessions during the week. Therapy may include physical therapy to improve motor skills, mobility and strength. Occupational therapy may be required to help with practical skills like washing and dressing oneself or how to access public transportation in a wheelchair. Each person’s goals are different and therapy is structured to help them achieve them.
The psychological impact of spinal cord injury and illness is enormous. Personal and family counselling and peer support groups are available to help patients and families cope with the sudden and traumatic life changes they are facing.
Education Empowers Individuals and their Families
Education is also a key component of the rehabilitation process. Emphasis is placed on helping people to learn about their injury and illness, how to care for themselves and how to proactively manage their own health.
Toronto Rehab and the
Canadian Paraplegic Association – Ontario also operate an extensive information and resource centre for patient and families at Toronto Rehab. An online centre is currently in development.
Specialized Services
Toronto Rehab’s Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program provides many specialized services onsite to meet the particular needs of individuals with spinal cord injury and illness. These include services such as:
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urology
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gynaecology and fertility
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assistive technology
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nutrition counselling
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wheelchair and seating assessments
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bone density assessment and treatment
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skin and wound care
Reintegrating into the Community
A person’s illness or injury will determine how long they will be an inpatient with the Program. Our team works closely with patients and families to prepare them for discharge and a return home. Weekend passes are often an important step to help individuals and their families in the adjustment process. The team also helps to put in place any supports that will be required, such as:
Individuals are usually cared for in the community by their family physician, but the Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program and its outpatient services provide additional support. Short–term inpatient services are also available for individuals who need to return to the hospital for care as a result of specific health concerns.