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In a recent post on the CARE list the author asked a number of general questions, concerning PT for PWP's. We have struggled with many of these over the last 15 yrs of my wife's ongoing battle with PD. The original post addressed trouble with transportation, PT in a facility or at home, is PT worthwhile, and if so, for what. I passed this on to my daughter who is a PT who has dealt with PD patients in a Rehab Hosp and homecare settings as well as helping with her mother. I hope it is useful to some of you. Phil CG for Carol,wife,62,15 ****************************************************************************** ******************** Dad, You can forward this however seems appropriate. Mary Ann I am a homecare Physical Therapist with experience treating Parkinsons patients in their homes.( I also have a mother 62 with PD). It is definetly beneficial to have PT for a Parkinsons patient, and homecare it is actually preferable to see a person in their own environment to understand potential safety concerns and aide in supporting the entire family in assisting their family member. There is no equipment that an outpatient department has that is important for this person that cannot be recreated in a home setting. The use of a restorator can be mentioned (a device which sits on the floor and pedals like a bike though you can sit in any chair) which many therapists do not have but can be purchased for the range of $45-$50.(it may even be partially covered under some insurance plans.) This is useful in strengtheing and flexibility as well as aiding in endurance. If a person cannot leave their home without "considerable" assistance (which can be unsteady gait, history of recent falls, needing support to prevent loss of balance) this person is considered homebound by Medicare regulations and should qualify for homecare from any insurance company. Under this definition it is assumed that the patient's outing are generally limited to medical excursions. Flexibility and light strengthening exercises, balance activities, transfer training (shower transfers, car transfers, in and out of chairs and bed), gait training with rec. regarding assistive devices, teaching a home ex. program to patient and caregivers, can be done just as well at home. You can call a local VNA (Visting Nurse Assoc.), try private home heath care agencies. Your local hospital should be able to assist you in finding out what is available. Hope you find what you need.