As an organization, Cota is committed to the safety of our staff and the individuals who receive our services. Part of this responsibility is outlined in our Quality Improvement Plan (2018-19) where we have prioritized efforts to reduce the risk of falls at our Acquired Brain Injury Adult Day Service (ABI ADS) Program. Cota has taken two important steps to ensure individuals are able to navigate the space safely:
- installing bars along the walls and in the washroom facilities
- implementing the T.I.M.E. Program for clients who are able to partake
The T.I.M.E. Program is a physio-movement based activity that focuses on building strength through balancing exercises for folks with ABIs and mobility challenges. Through weekly sessions, individuals enrolled in the ADS program practice exercises that are guided by staff who are certified T.I.M.E. program leaders.
The T.I.M.E. Program is specifically designed to improve balance in people with neurological conditions, so we have chosen to implement this program as a strategy to reduce the overall number of falls experienced by our clients
Two physiotherapists from Providence also visit several times throughout the term to oversee the program, support the staff and progress of our clients.
We have seen and heard from participants how valuable the T.I.M.E. program is in helping them maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Since implementing the T.I.M.E. Program, staff have reported a significant drop in falls at this site.
The ABI ADS team always looks for innovative and evidence-based interventions to enhance the clients’ quality of life.
On December 17th, a group of individuals graduated from the program and shared how this experience impacted their lives:
In the beginning of participating in the program, it was difficult for me to do the exercises. However after weeks of doing the exercises, I feel better with my coordination and endurance and stamina. I can now bend down to pick something up from the floor. This is significant for me because prior to the exercise program, I was not able to do that. I highly recommend this program for people with mobility problems as it is beneficial.
The program is very helpful and successful for me. The exercises makes me stronger and it helps me to be more motivated and also motivate others. When others see me workout it gives them encouragement to also participate in exercise. So basically I am like a leader.
The program is helpful because it focuses on exercises that help with my mobility. It makes me stronger and it gives me more energy. I push myself when I do the exercises and it keeps me more energetic.
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