Why small updates matter
Home physio tends to help most when each visit builds on the last one. Same physio wherever possible means your therapist knows the client's starting point and can spot what has changed. But a lot can happen in the days between visits, and the therapist only sees part of the week. A quick update from the client, family or care manager fills in the gaps, so the next session starts in the right place. Our post on why the same physio matters for tracking progress explains this in more detail.
Changes worth passing on
A fall or a near miss
Tell your therapist about any fall, even if the client was not hurt, and any moments where they nearly fell. Near misses often show where the program needs to focus. See fear of falling after a near miss.
A hospital stay, emergency visit or new diagnosis
A stay in hospital, a trip to the emergency department or a new condition can change what exercise is suitable. Let us know before the next visit so the therapist can review the plan. Our guide to the first month after hospital covers what that review can look like.
Medicine changes from the doctor
You do not need to explain the details. Just mention that the doctor has changed something, especially if the client has felt dizzy, more tired or unsteady since.
New or worse pain
Pain that is new, sharper or lasting longer than usual is worth mentioning. The therapist can adjust exercises and suggest when to check in with the doctor.
Changes at home
A new walking aid, rearranged furniture, a new rail, a different bed or chair, or a change in who is at home during the day can all affect how the client moves and practises.
Changes in mood, energy or routine
Feeling flat, sleeping poorly or skipping the usual walk can affect progress. These are useful to know, not something to worry about sharing.
How to pass it on
- Before the visit: call 040 55 77 555 or email admin@alerahealthcare.com.au with a short note.
- At the visit: mention it at the start, so the session can be planned around it.
- Keep a simple note: a page on the fridge or a note in the phone with dates and what happened makes it easy to remember.
- Family updates: families are welcome to share updates, and therapists can update families on request, with the client's consent.
Our post on keeping momentum between home physio visits has more ideas for the days in between.
For care managers at registered providers
If you hear about a fall, a hospital stay or a change in the client's needs, a short note to Alera helps the therapist plan the next visit. The client keeps their current provider and care manager, and Alera delivers the agreed physio or EP sessions as an associated provider. Read more in already have a Support at Home provider? or visit our referrals page.
When not to wait
If the client is unwell, has hurt themselves or something feels wrong, contact their doctor. In an emergency, call 000. Updates to your therapist are for planning, not for urgent care.
About Alera Healthcare
Alera Healthcare has provided mobile physiotherapy and exercise physiology in clients' homes across Sydney Metro since 2004, with visits available any day, including Saturdays. Support at Home clients, private clients and families, and DVA clients can enquire. We do not offer occupational therapy or NDIS services.
Next step
Not sure whether a change is worth mentioning? Book a 15-minute call to talk it through, or visit our referrals page if you are a care manager.
Call 040 55 77 555 or email admin@alerahealthcare.com.au.
FAQ
What should I tell my physio before the next home visit?
Any fall or near miss, a hospital stay or new diagnosis, a medicine change from the doctor, new or worse pain, a new walking aid, or a change in who is helping at home.
Can family members pass on updates to the physio?
Yes. Families are welcome to share updates by phone or email, and therapists can update families on request with the client's consent.
Do I need to explain medicine changes in detail?
No. Just let the therapist know the doctor has changed something and whether the client has felt different since. Questions about the medicine itself are for the doctor or pharmacist.
What if something happens and the next visit is days away?
Let us know by phone or email so the therapist can plan. If the client is unwell or hurt, contact their doctor, and call 000 in an emergency.
Who can enquire about in-home physio or EP with Alera?
Care managers at registered providers, private clients and families can all enquire. DVA clients can ask about eligibility on enquiry. We do not offer occupational therapy or NDIS services.