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90-year-old Gets off the Sidelines and Returns to Active Lifestyle with VNA Care's Home Health Care Services

Arthur McRae was on one of his favorite outings – lunch at a local restaurant – when his right leg suddenly collapsed.

He was hospitalized for a week, undergoing numerous tests as doctors assessed his condition and whether surgery would be a safe and effective treatment.

“I’m 90 years old, and I do not want to sit around,” said Arthur.

His diagnosis was spinal stenosis, where the spinal canal becomes narrowed and may put pressure on the nerves causing pain, numbness, weakness, and other symptoms. While surgery can create more space inside the spine and ease these problems, patients in Arthur’s age range are more likely to have serious complications when undergoing a variety of surgical procedures.

To Arthur’s relief, he was cleared for surgery, and the procedure was a success. He returned home with VNA Care’s home health care team to ensure his safe recovery and continued progress.

When Mary Claire Cantor, physical therapist, made her first visit, Arthur relied on a walker and had incredibly limited mobility. Arthur wanted to regain his strength and active lifestyle, so the two got to work on therapeutic exercises aimed at getting Arthur off the sidelines and back to enjoying outings with family and friends.

“Mary is a really good physical therapist, and I’m very good at wanting to get better,” said Arthur.

The two were a winning team. Arthur particularly appreciated Mary’s depth of knowledge and commitment to helping him reach his goals. “She took the time to get to know me and understand what I needed,” said Arthur. “I’ve had services from other agencies where the staff just go through the motions. Mary actually cares.”

Arthur diligently followed Mary’s plan and advice, and was impressed by the progress he made in their time together. He shared, “I’m no longer homebound. I walk with a cane, and I go anywhere I want.”