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Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

Teams focus on helping patients regain independence with self-care tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Therapists provide training, adaptive equipment, and techniques that allow patients to perform these activities more safely and confidently.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

Recovering from a serious illness or injury can make everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, or eating feel overwhelming. Our inpatient rehabilitation team is here to help you regain those essential self-care skills through a personalized, supportive plan.

Working together, our therapists, nurses, and physicians focus first on basic activities of daily living (ADLs), then gradually introduce instrumental activities of daily living (iADLs) more complex tasks such as cooking, managing medications, handling finances, or using technology.

By rebuilding your ability to care for yourself, we not only support your physical recovery but also help restore confidence, independence, and emotional well-being so you can return home stronger and more self-reliant.

Supporting Your Lifestyle and Goals

Every person’s recovery journey is unique which is why your rehabilitation plan is personalized to match your needs, goals, and daily routines. Whether your aim is to return to work, care for a loved one or pet, or simply enjoy everyday tasks like cooking at home, we’re here to help you build the strength and skills to make it possible.

Through consistent practice of real-life activities in a safe, supportive environment, you’ll not only gain confidence and independence you’ll also reduce the risk of complications such as muscle loss or pressure injuries. Our goal is to help you get back to the life you love, one step at a time.

Conditions That Benefit from ADL-Focused Therapy
Our REAL Therapy® program is designed to help patients regain independence by practicing daily tasks in realistic environments such as simulated kitchens, bedrooms, and laundry areas. This hands-on approach is especially valuable for individuals recovering from conditions that impact movement, memory, strength, or coordination.

ADL-focused therapy can be beneficial for those recovering from:

Stroke

Spinal cord injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Parkinson’s disease

Limb loss or amputation

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Burn injuries

By recreating real-life situations, our program helps patients safely rebuild the skills needed to perform everyday activities supporting long-term independence and quality of life.

What Are ADLs and iADLs?

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are the essential self-care tasks we perform every day to maintain personal health and hygiene. These include:

Bathing

Dressing

Eating

Toileting

Grooming

Oral care

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADLs) are more complex tasks that support independent living and require higher-level thinking and coordination. These include:

Preparing meals

Managing medications

Using a phone or computer

Driving or navigating transportation

Handling finances

Doing laundry and household chores

Both ADLs and iADLs are important for maintaining independence. Our rehabilitation programs are designed to help you safely relearn and practice these tasks, so you can return to everyday life with confidence.

Start your recovery with expert care

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Our Rehabilitation program supports patients with:

  • Occupational therapy for dressing, bathing, and grooming
  • Training with adaptive equipment to improve independence
  • Task-specific practice to build confidence in self-care
  • Energy conservation and pacing strategies for daily routines
  • Safety awareness training for home and community activities
  • Education for caregivers on how to support without over-assisting
Our Comprehensive Approach
We provide a structured environment that helps patients rebuild physical strength, cognitive function, and emotional resilience. We use an interdisciplinary model built on collaboration and innovation.

PM&R Physicians

Physical and Occupational Therapists

Speech-Language Pathologists

Neuro-psychologists

Rehab
Nurses

Case
Managers

Why Choose RVA PMR

Experienced Physicians

Our board-certified physiatrists lead each patient’s care plan, ensuring medical oversight, consistency, and the highest standards of rehabilitation.

State-of-the-Art Technology

Our board-certified physiatrists lead each patient’s care plan, ensuring medical oversight, consistency, and the highest standards of rehabilitation.

Personalized Care Plans

We tailor every treatment program to the individual—focusing on specific goals like improved mobility, communication, independence, or quality of life.

Interdisciplinary Team Approach

Our collaborative team includes physical, occupational, and speech therapists, rehabilitation nurses, case managers, and support staff—all working together to support you.

Patient FAQs
Looking to save time before your visit? Our patient resources section includes downloadable forms, instructions, and informational PDFs to help you prepare for your appointment. Whether you need new patient paperwork, insurance guidance, or therapy instructions, everything you need is just a click away.

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Where does RVA PMR practice?

RVA PMR currently provides services at Encompass Health Richmond and Encompass Health Petersburg. We are expanding into additional facilities, so please check back for updates as we continue to grow.

Most of our patients come to us following an acute hospital stay. However, we also admit patients directly from the community. If you are coming from home, a referral from a physician or other qualified provider is required.

Yes. Our services are covered by all major insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Medical records must be requested through the facility where you are receiving care. If you are at an Encompass Health hospital, please contact their Health Information Management Specialist (HIMS) coordinator for assistance.

Please bring comfortable clothing suitable for exercise and daily activities, along with supportive sneakers or athletic shoes. Since you may be with us for several weeks, we recommend bringing enough clothing for the duration of your stay.

What Our Patients Are Saying

- Sarah T.
“I came to RVA PMR after a traumatic brain injury. I couldn’t walk, speak clearly, or even focus. Six months later, I’m back to work and more independent than I ever thought possible.”
- Mohammad A.
A serious car accident left me with unbearable pain and very limited mobility. I couldn’t imagine returning to my normal life. With this team’s help, I made progress week after week until I could walk and even return to work. Dr. Dena truly saved my life, and I will always be grateful.
- Linda P.
Following spinal surgery, I struggled to complete even the simplest daily tasks. I felt defeated, but the rehab program here was structured, supportive, and personalized for me. Little by little, I regained strength and confidence. Today, I can take care of myself and feel hopeful about the future again.
- Michael K.
After my brain injury, I had trouble speaking, concentrating, and even remembering basic things. It was frightening and discouraging. The physiatrist and team worked patiently with me, helping me rebuild both skills and confidence. I feel like myself again, and my family sees the progress every day.
- Emily H.
My stroke left me weak on one side and completely dependent on others. The therapy here gave me both hope and results. Casey helped me through everything, she was the best nurse practitioner I’ve ever worked with. Thanks to her guidance and compassion, I can walk, cook, and live independently again.
- Jorge R.
After a motorcycle crash, I didn’t think I would ever recover. I felt broken both physically and mentally. The team’s dedication and persistence pushed me to keep trying, even when I wanted to give up. Today, I’ve regained strength, mobility, and the confidence to return to my normal life.
- Karen S.
I never thought I’d be able to cook, dress, or drive again after my accident. The team here proved me wrong. They supported me at every step, celebrated my small victories, and pushed me toward big ones. I’m back to living independently, and I’ll always credit them for giving me back my life.
- David M.
After losing part of my leg, I was overwhelmed and unsure of how to move forward. The compassion and expertise I received made all the difference. They taught me how to adapt, regain strength, and most importantly, live with confidence. I couldn’t have asked for a better team on this journey.
- Patricia L.
My traumatic brain injury changed everything about my life. I struggled with memory, balance, and even basic communication. This team gave me the tools to heal, adapt, and thrive. Their support has been nothing short of life-changing, and I’m finally able to return to the activities I love.
- Anika B.
Recovering from multiple fractures was one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced. Every day felt like a mountain to climb. The physiatry team created a plan tailored to me, and Carrie, my nurse practitioner, went above and beyond to make sure I had the support I needed. Thanks to them, I’m stronger than ever.
- James R.
I came here after a serious fall that left me unable to walk on my own. The progress I’ve made is incredible. Dr. Dena explained every step and made sure I understood my treatment. His confidence gave me the strength to believe in myself again.
- Elena G.
Multiple sclerosis left me exhausted and struggling with daily tasks. I didn’t think I could improve, but Casey showed me otherwise. She took the time to explain what was happening to my body and gave me strategies to manage my condition. She truly cares, and it shows.
- Robert D.
A motorcycle crash left me unable to work and in constant pain. I had nearly given up hope until I came here. Dr. Dena tailored my rehab and checked in on my progress often. Without his expertise, I wouldn’t have the strength or mobility I have today.
- Sofia M.
After finishing chemotherapy, I was drained and could barely get through a day without collapsing in exhaustion. Carrie was the steady voice I needed through recovery. She encouraged me to rebuild my strength slowly and never lose hope. Her kindness and determination gave me the courage to keep fighting. I’m healthier, stronger, and finally seeing life beyond cancer again.
- Anthony B.
Recovering from multiple fractures was daunting. The physiatry team was relentless in their support, and Dr. Dena took the time to really understand my goals. Today, I’m walking without assistance and getting back to work, something I never thought possible.
- Hassan N.
After my stroke, I felt like a burden on my family. This program changed everything. Casey’s encouragement and practical advice gave me both the tools and confidence to reclaim my independence. I owe my recovery to her dedication and care.
- Rachel W.
I went through months of rehabilitation after my spinal cord injury. It was overwhelming, but Carrie always went above and beyond. She checked in, listened when I was discouraged, and made sure I had the right exercises to keep moving forward. She made me believe in myself again.
- Thomas L.
Parkinson’s disease made everyday tasks frustrating and difficult. Dr. Dena and his team worked with me patiently, creating a plan that improved my strength, balance, and confidence. I feel more in control of my life and my future now.
- Isabella F.
My traumatic brain injury left me struggling with simple conversations and memory lapses. Casey never treated me like a patient with limitations, she treated me like a person with potential. Her encouragement has been life-changing.
- Carlos V.
After major back surgery, I was told recovery would be slow and difficult. With this team’s help, it was challenging but successful. Carrie especially made sure I had what I needed every step of the way. Her kindness and determination made all the difference.
Ready to Take the Next Step to Recovery?
Whether you’re exploring treatment options or have questions about your care, our team is here to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation, get answers, or learn more about our rehabilitation services.
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