Case Study: Glengariff Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center – Q2 2025
Concierge: Bezi Gross
Patient Name: Lea T.
Patient Age: 82
Admission Date: 2/22/2025
Admitted From: North Shore University Hospital
D/C Date: 5/30/2025
D/C Location: Home
Length of Stay: 98 Days
Reason for Stay: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) with Acute Exacerbation and Unsteadiness on Feet

Details of experience:

When Lea T. was admitted to Glengariff Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center from North Shore University Hospital on February 22, 2025, she was in a highly vulnerable state due to complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with acute exacerbation, compounded by severe unsteadiness on her feet. At the time of admission, Lea required substantial to maximal assistance with nearly all daily functions and mobility. Her condition necessitated the use of a Hoyer/mechanical lift for transfers, as she was unable to move independently. 

In addition to her physical challenges, Lea arrived with a baseline of being fully dependent in all Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)—including grooming, dressing, bathing, and toileting. The occupational therapy (OT) team implemented a personalized and intensive plan to rebuild her functional independence. Through consistent and targeted interventions, she steadily progressed, regaining the strength, coordination, and confidence needed to care for herself.

By the time of discharge, Lea had made a full recovery in her ADL performance, achieving complete independence in all self-care tasks. Meanwhile, the broader rehabilitation team collaborated on improving her mobility, endurance, and respiratory strength. Therapists focused on rebuilding her foundational strength and gradually transitioning her out of full dependence. As her stamina improved through consistent pulmonary and physical rehabilitation, Lea was able to progress to standing, walking with assistance, and ultimately ambulating more independently. By May 30, 2025, Lea was walking 150 feet using a quad cane with standby assistance—an incredible leap from her initial reliance on a mechanical lift. She also reached a milestone she once thought unimaginable: she was able to climb six steps with support.

Throughout her stay, Lea consistently expressed appreciation for the compassion and professionalism of the Glengariff team. She spoke highly of the staff’s attentiveness, the expertise of her therapy providers, and the strong leadership that ensured her care was smooth, personalized, and effective. The therapy directors, Janina and Nena, were especially instrumental in guiding her recovery and tailoring sessions to her specific needs.

Thanks to Lea’s determination and the coordinated support of the Glengariff team, she was able to return home safely with dramatically improved mobility, full independence in daily living, and a renewed sense of confidence. Her successful journey stands as a testament to both her resilience and the excellence of care provided at Glengariff.

Family Feedback:

“My mother stayed at Glengariff for a number of months. The staff was patient and kind to her. Their actions, along with their physical and occupational therapy program, helped my mother walk again and come home.”

– Lea’s son