Rediscovering Life: From Isolation to Empowerment

WRITTEN BY: COLIN STEVENS, ACT DIRECTOR

Imagine what it feels like to be stuck. To feel like you can’t be active and do as you please because you don’t have the energy or the confidence.

This is what Ms. Johnson felt like nearly every day. She had been diagnosed with COPD, which was also accompanied by shortness of breath. This illness caused Ms. Johnson to spend most of her time in her room, disconnected from the other residents in her community. In fact, most of her activity only came from walking to and from the dining hall each day.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can be debilitating, thus making simple everyday activities seem difficult or even impossible. COPD affects over 16 million people in the United States, and many more people might be living with this challenging illness and not even know it. COPD can often cause people to become isolated or feel unable to participate in social activities or family events.

When Ms. Johnson was first visited by a Health Coach provided by Your Health, she noticed a slight change. The Health Coach listened to her as she described her discomfort and frustration, as well as her desire to be able to get up, get out, and do more. For the first time in a long time, she hoped her health and situation could improve. Together, they discussed what mattered to Ms. Johnson and her health. Then, through a series of questions and discussions, the Health Coach assisted Ms. Johnson in setting a goal and formulating a plan.

On the next visit, they began with simple seated strength exercises. During the exercises, the Health Coach helped Ms. Johnson understand the importance of the training and how it would help her move closer to achieving her goal. As Ms. Johnson became stronger, she and her Health Coach began to walk together around the community, stretching their length of walking time each visit. Ms. Johnson enjoyed the walk, appreciated the company, and grew confident.

In just a few months, Ms. Johnson could complete a full lap around the community without stopping and resting or increasing her oxygen saturation. She felt stronger and more confident, ready to make the most out of each day. Her interactions with other members of the community have increased, as she now has the capability of getting out to socialize more. She’s noticed that her life has improved as her health has improved, and she is grateful for her interactions with her Health Coach.

At Your Health, we care about what you care about, and our Care Team Members will ensure that you receive the quality care you need.