Elderly case study –

Miss B was referred to us in 2007. She was suffering from arthritis which particularly affected her left knee. She had a lot of pain, and problems with mobility.

She'd had a short spell in hospital and was pleased that her pain was a little more controlled, but she was still struggling with the stairs. Her RED ARC Personal Nurse Adviser was able to provide details of the local Independent Living Centre so that she could make enquiries about stair lifts. She took the advice of the Occupational Therapist at the centre and got a suitable stairlift which has been really helpful.

Her GP was very aware of her pain levels and suggested physiotherapy. Unfortunately the waiting list was long.

The RED ARC Personal Nurse Adviser located a local physiotherapist, who was also qualified in acupuncture, and put them in touch. Miss B checked with her GP and he was happy for this to go ahead. This has been very effective and Miss B feels that her pain has improved.

Miss B has been keeping in touch with her Personal Nurse Adviser, and has been delighted with the information, advice and reassurance that she has been given. She often felt low and appreciates the listening ear and encouragement that she receives.

Miss B says that she is delighted; she is managing to get around more easily. She still has some acupuncture sessions to come and is going to use these to help in the future. She says that she found the physio and acupuncture so helpful at a time when she was really struggling with pain. We continue to keep in touch.



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