“Dad’s Not the Same Anymore”: A Turning Point for the Black Family

That’s what Peter thought when he saw his father, John, hesitating to step outside. The once active, hands-on mechanic who loved AFL and tending the garden now struggled to get out of his chair without help. Peter could see the spark fading—and knew he had to act.

Meet John: A Footy-Loving Mechanic Facing New Challenges

John, 88, built his life with his hands. A retired mechanic and proud footy fan, he thrived on movement and independence. But a fractured hip in early 2024, combined with existing health conditions changed everything.

He began walking less, staying inside more. Tasks like gardening or reaching the top shelf became overwhelming. His daughter Sal, who he lives with, noticed the decline. Peter, his son, worried too. Something had to change.

The First Step: A Comprehensive Functional Assessment

Through their care manager, John was referred to Summit Health Solutions. We began with a Functional & Mobility Assessment, a full evaluation to understand John's needs, risks, and daily goals.

Key findings included:

• Timed Up and Go: 23.61 seconds (a high falls risk)

• Sit-to-stand: 6 repetitions in 30 seconds (indicating lower limb weakness)

• Pain in both feet and ankles, 4/10 on the pain scale

• Balance impairments that made standing tasks like cooking or grooming unsafe without support

With John’s full consent—and the support of his family—we created a personalised 12-week in-home exercise plan.

From Risk to Resilience: A Tailored Exercise Program at Home

John’s program focused on:

• Lower and upper body strength

• Static and dynamic balance

• Trunk stability and fine motor skills

• Building confidence with daily activities like standing, walking, and reaching

He met with his Allied Health Assistant (AHA) weekly at home, removing the need to travel. Using simple equipment like resistance bands and 1kg dumbbells, John’s sessions were carefully adapted to match his abilities, goals, and energy levels.

The Turning Point: Measurable Gains in Strength, Balance, and Confidence

At the 12-week review, John’s improvements were clear:

• Sit-to-stand increased to 8 repetitions

• Timed Up and Go recorded at 18 seconds with more stability and confidence

• He began practising AFL kicks with his therapist during sessions

• His pain levels remained manageable, allowing him to walk and stand for longer periods

Even more meaningful, John was moving through the house more freely, engaging with family, and looking forward to each session.

More Than Exercise: Reconnecting with What Matters Most

For John, this wasn’t just about numbers. It was about regaining identity. With the support of Summit Health Solutions:

• He returned to kicking the footy in the backyard

• He used the kitchen independently again

• He shared laughs and memories with his therapist, reigniting his confidence and joy

Peter saw the change, too. His father wasn’t just safer—he was living again.

Key Takeaways for Care Managers and Family Members

If you're supporting someone like John, here’s what his journey can teach us:

1. Early support prevents bigger setbacks.

Functional decline is reversible when caught early with tailored therapy.

2. Assess. Plan. Progress. Review.

Summit’s structured 12-week blocks ensure consistent progress and data-driven adjustments.

3. In-home services reduce barriers.

We meet your client where they are—physically and emotionally—building trust and consistency.

4. It’s not just about exercise—it’s about life.

Reaching the cupboard, walking to the garden, kicking a ball—these are wins that matter.

John’s Story Could Be Your Client’s Too

John’s transformation was made possible through a collaborative, compassionate approach—built on clinical care, lived experience, and personal goals. He didn’t just regain strength—he regained hope.

If you're a care manager or family member, know that the right program, delivered at the right time, can make a life-changing difference.

Take the First Step: Book an In-Home Functional Assessment Today

We’d love to help someone you care about move better, feel stronger, and live more confidently.

👉 Contact Summit Health Solutions at 1300 315 315
📧 Or email admin@summithealthsolutions.com.au

Let’s help your loved one—or your client—live life to the fullest, right from home.