Institute of Physical Rehabilitation - January 30, 2014

OLLI visited the Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IPMR) at their Peoria location on Sheridan Road. President Rick Zehr welcomed us to the facility and gave us a quick overview and history of IPMR.

As we toured the facility, we met many key members of the dedicated staff at IPMR who discussed the different programs and therapies IPMR has available at their sites throughout the Central Illinois area. We learned IPMR recently launched a new program called STAR (Survivor Training and Rehabilitation) which is designed to help with the physical and emotional problems that occur as a result of cancer and cancer treatment. It is the only comprehensive oncology rehabilitation program in the area.There are 26 IPMR staff members who are certified specialists, assisting with the STAR program.

Ryan Fairchild, a Physical Therapist, gave a short informational talk about fall prevention and the importance of identifying concussions. He explained the different tests and screenings available for IPMR clients. We toured the balance room to view the equipment, and some OLLI members had the opportunity to brave a few of the balance tests.

We went next door to visit The IPMR Return to Work Center, which facilitates a person’s entry or return to work. They have a variety of equipment to provide services to those with an occupational injury or illness, physical impairment, or disability.

Going behind the scenes to find out about the many programs IPMR provides was was a great learning experience. OLLI would like to thank the staff of IPMR for an amazing tour! Click here to learn more about IPMR.