In the historic town of Antigonish, two local recreation therapy associates have teamed up to help older patients get moving at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, an 89-bed acute care facility.
Marybeth Connolly and Chelsey Pellerin joined the Nova Scotia Health Frailty and Elder Care Network’s Early Mobility Program (EMP) when it began at St. Martha’s in October 2023. The program was also introduced at the province’s eight other regional hospitals that year to reduce the risk of patients becoming frailer while in hospital.
When a person 65 years or older is admitted to the hospital, they are assessed by healthcare staff using the Clinical Frailty Scale and referred to the EMP. At any given time, there are typically 15 to 20 patients participating in the program at St. Martha’s.
“The goal is to have patients moving within the first 24 hours after being referred to the program and for EMP team members to walk with patients twice a day to complement routine walking with direct care staff,” said Dr. Kenneth Rockwood, QEII Health Sciences Centre internist-geriatrician and clinician scientist and medical director for the Frailty and Elder Care Network.
Recreation therapy associates like Marybeth and Chelsey have a key role in helping patients maintain their independence so they can return to the place they call home sooner. “Our education has really prepared us for this role, especially in the area of motivating patients to move each day,” said Chelsey.
Both Chelsey and Marybeth grew up in the local area and feel it is beneficial to work at a rural hospital in the community where you live. “It is helpful to be from the area as we can connect with patients about their community, hobbies and interests,” said Marybeth. “Often the first question people ask is, ‘Where are you from?’.”
“I enjoy getting to know the patients, building a relationship with them and understanding what motivates them,” said Chelsey. “Moving is a gateway to other areas of our health; it isn’t just about the walk, it is about making connections, socializing with others and stimulating a person’s thinking.”
“One of the rewarding things is seeing the progress that people make during their time in the program. Early on, some patients may only walk from the bed to the doorway of their room. Often the patient may feel discouraged of their progress; however, I like to remind them that any movement is good movement,” said Marybeth. “Eventually, their distance increases as we work with them, which can improve their strength and independence.”
Being able to return home supports faster recovery, fosters independence and can lead to improved mobility and overall well-being. Recovering at home also lowers the risk of picking up an infection in hospital, which can potentially increase a person’s stay.
Since it began, more than 7,040 patients have been referred to the EMP across the province. Data shows that about 80 per cent, or more than 5,600 of these patients, returned to the place they call home.
For more information about Nova Scotia Health’s Early Mobility Program, visit: https://www.nshealth.ca/clinics-programs-and-services/early-mobility-pr…
February marks Recreation Therapy Month across Canada and this dynamic pair of recreation therapy associates embody this year’s theme: One Voice, Driving Change.
Photo of Chelsey Pellerin (left) and Marybeth Connolly (right).
