Your first visit
An hour, a chair and a few questions
Nothing happens that you have not agreed to. You can stop, sit or ask a question at any moment, and you can bring someone to sit beside you.
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Step 1: A call from the front desk
Before your visit, someone calls to check your plan and answer questions, so there are no surprises about coverage.
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Step 2: A talk
Your therapist asks what has changed, what worries you and what you want to be doing again. Medicines and falls come up here, and you set the pace.
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Step 3: A look at how you move
You stand, sit, walk and turn while the therapist stays close. Nothing is a test, and a belt at your waist is there for steadiness.
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Step 4: A first few exercises
You try two or three, so you know how they feel before you leave.
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Step 5: A plan you can read
You leave with large-print exercises, a few goals in your own words and a next appointment, if you want one.
Getting ready
What to wear and what to bring
Flat shoes that close
Sneakers or walking shoes, the kind you would wear for a stroll.
Easy clothes
Something you can bend and reach in, with sleeves you can push up.
Your cane or walker
Bring what you use every day. We check how it fits.
Your medicine list
A list, or the bottles. We ask so we know what might make you dizzy.
Your plan cards
Medicare and any other cards, though the front desk will already have checked.
A family member
Someone who sees you at home can add a lot. Bring them if you like.
Coming along
Coming with a parent is welcome
Many of our first visits include a son or daughter. You can watch, ask questions or step out for a moment, and your parent decides how much you take part.
What is not decided on the first day
We do not hand you a number of visits at the door. We learn how you move first, then talk with you about how often to come, and we revisit it as you go.
We also do not ask you to change your medicines or your doctor’s plan. If something we see worries us, we tell you and, with your permission, your doctor.
Before you come
How long is the first visit?
About an hour. Allow a few minutes at the end to book the next one.
Do I need a referral?
Often not. In Iowa you can start with a physical therapist, though some plans want a doctor’s order. The front desk will tell you when they call.
What if I use a wheelchair or walker?
Come as you are. Our entrance is level, the gym has room to turn, and we work with what you use.
Can I bring my husband or wife?
Yes. Bring whoever helps you feel at ease.
Ready for a first visit?
Call the front desk, or send a message and they will call you.