Occupational therapy team helping patients reclaim their independence

Rockingham General Hospital is embracing new technology, flexible rehabilitation options and a highly supportive team environment to help patients like Johanna recover and regain independence closer to home.

Originally from The Netherlands and now living in Western Australia with her husband, Johanna was rushed to Fiona Stanley Hospital after fainting at home.

In the emergency department, she experienced seizures and uncontrollable shaking – a scan revealed bleeding on her brain which meant a long rehabilitation journey.

She was transferred to Rockingham General Hospital to be closer to her home in Secret Harbour, allowing her husband to be with her every day, supporting her through her recovery.

Thanks to the occupational therapy (OT) and physiotherapy teams at the hospital's RGH Aged Care Rehabilitation Unit, Johanna was able to rebuild her confidence and independence.

One of the key tools in her recovery was the Saebo Rejoyce, a computer-based rehabilitation device that helps patients improve arm and hand function through interactive games.

For Johanna, who has loved computers since her 15^th birthday, it has been a perfect fit.

“I love using the computer,” she said.

“The games are fun, and I get really competitive with myself, and it is very stimulating.”

The gamification aspect of the Saebo Rejoyce has helped Johanna rebuild coordination and strength in a way that feels engaging and motivating, something that OT Ness Anderson, has seen in Johanna’s recovery.

“When Johanna started, she had about 90-degree shoulder flexion and shoulder abduction,” said Ness.

“She now has full range of motion which comes down to self-initiated rebab sessions including use of the Saebo Rejoyce.”

RGH has also made weekend and after-hours access to the OT therapy space available, giving patients like Johanna more opportunities to continue their rehab outside of standard weekday hours.

Suitable patients are oriented to the rehabilitation space and shown how to access activities, where to manoeuvre their wheelchair to and how to use the mirrors to their advantage.

It is just one example of how the hospital is going above and beyond to provide patient -centred care and support evidence-based practice for neurological rehabilitation.

Johanna speaks highly of the staff, describing them as friendly and supportive but funny.

“The atmosphere is one of encouragement, warmth and professionalism, with strong communication between the OT and physiotherapy teams,” said Johanna.

“I’ve consistently felt like I’m in the best place for my recovery. They’re a very good team; social, supportive, and they communicate really well.”

Her message to others going through recovery is simple but powerful – “Stay healthy, live healthy, keep on moving – especially in your recovery.”

OT Week, which celebrates the contributions OTs make, runs from Monday 27 October to Sunday 2 November 2025.

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