Why does the caregiver matter in physiotherapy?
Because the physiotherapist sees your parent for an hour, and you see her for the other days. What she practises between visits decides how well the plan works.
A caregiver who understands the exercises can encourage, correct and spot problems. She or he also keeps your parent safe on the stairs and in the bathroom.
That role is real work. It helps to know what is expected of you.
What are the three roles at a session?
At a home visit, think of three roles, in this order.
- Watcher. At first, watch how the physiotherapist assesses, what your parent finds hard, and how the exercises are taught.
- Helper. Once you know the steps, you support with the exercises, adjusting a position or standing near for safety.
- Back-up. Later, your parent does the exercises with only you or the helper nearby.
You move through these as your parent improves. At each stage, ask if you are doing it right.
What should you watch for?
Notice how your parent stands, walks and turns. Notice what makes her wince, hold her breath or slow down.
Notice how the physiotherapist helps: where her hands go, how she cues, and what she says to keep your parent calm. You will be doing the same, so copy what works.
If your parent has had a stroke, ask to see how to guide the weaker side safely. Our page on home physiotherapy in Ipoh describes how a visit runs.
What should you ask at the end of the visit?
Five questions are worth asking each time.
- What did we work on today, and why?
- What should we practise before the next visit?
- How frequently each day, and for how long?
- What should we stop if it hurts, and who do we message?
- What changed since last time, and what is next?
Write the answers down, or ask for a short message on WhatsApp. Exact timing and details depend on your parent and the plan.
How can you help without taking over?
Let your parent do as much as she can. Doing everything for her is kind, but it can make her weaker and more dependent.
Stand within reach, speak calmly and give one cue at a time. Praise effort, not only results. If she wants to stop, ask why: it may be pain, fear or tiredness.
Keep her dignity. Cover her appropriately, ask before touching, and do not talk about her as if she is not there. Our guide on helping a parent attend physiotherapy covers the conversation.
What if you live far away or work during the day?
You can still be involved. Ask for the plan to be shared with you, and join one visit by video call.
Choose one person in Ipoh to supervise practice, usually the helper or a family member living nearby. Teach her the exercises with the physiotherapist, and ask her to send you a short update after practice. See caring for your parents in Ipoh from KL.
What about the centre in Canning Garden?
Our Canning Garden centre, near Fatimah Hospital, is opening soon, and family can come along to centre sessions as well. For a parent who needs help at home, home visits across Ipoh are available now.