Physiotherapy shines bright in Home Care

For Juniper Physiotherapy Clinical Team Leader Bernie Wong, there’s no doubt physiotherapy can be the star of the show for Home Care customers.

“Our goal is to help the customer maintain their independence, and stay at home for as long as possible,” he said.

“As a team, we really want to show the benefits of physiotherapy in home care. This ranges from improving or maintaining strength, balance and stamina and managing aches and pains so the customer can continue doing the activities they enjoy, or providing advice or exercises that can help reduce their risk of falls.”

Bernie adds that it is important to educate customers on the benefits of physiotherapy for their physical wellbeing.

“Educating our customers on the benefits of physiotherapy can help boost their independence as well as their confidence,” he said.

“We have seen some great outcomes for our customers who’ve reached their goals and can do some of things that they haven’t been able to for some time.”

“We’re all about holistic care – two people may have the same condition, but their goals will be different.” – Juniper Clinical Team Leader Physiotherapy Bernie Wong.

Previously working at two Juniper Residential Aged Care homes as the on-site physiotherapist as well as in acute care in hospitals, Bernie joined Juniper Home and Community Care mid-2023 in the newly created role, where he oversees a growing team of physiotherapists and therapy assistants.

When it comes to providing physiotherapy support in Home Care, Bernie said the customer’s individual needs and goals are always at the forefront of each carefully tailored care plan.

“We’re all about holistic care – two people may have the same condition, but their goals will be different,” Bernie said.

“No matter what level the customer is at, we can still make a significant impact on their quality of life and their independence. We want to treat everyone with dignity, and respect their background, preferences and beliefs. We want to work together with them and understand the customer as a whole person.”

“We need to listen actively to customer’s concern or complaint, understanding where people are coming from to be able to see how we can best support them.”