Easy Street features interactive settings and situational simulations to help patients relearn common activities of daily living.
Ascension Via Christi Rehabilitation Hospital has completed its remodel of the interactive situational therapy area called Easy Street.
Easy Street features interactive settings and situational simulations to help patients relearn common activities of daily living.
"This space allows for community reintegration activities, which is an important component of physical rehabilitation, in a controlled and therapeutically beneficial setting," says Laurie Labarca, Rehabilitation Hospital president. "It is a key differentiator in the care we provide to patients undergoing physical, occupational and speech therapy."
Easy Street has for years served as a specialized area for relearning how to navigate porch steps, get in and out of the car, do grocery shopping and dine out.
With the help and generosity of community partners and the Via Christi Foundation, Easy Street has been updated and new spaces have been created, including a simulated:
- Walmart with stocked shelves of simulated grocery, produce and dairy items and a checkout and self-checkout station
- Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers dining area
- Planet Fitness gym complete with exercise equipment
- A front porch with a ramp and stairs, with materials provided by Star Lumber & Supply
Additionally, the car inside Easy Street was replaced with a "Tran-Sit" car simulator, which allows patients to practice getting in and out of various adjustable heights of vehicles. Easy Street also has an area where patients can practice navigating curbs, streets and crosswalks.
The project was underwritten by a six-figure gift from the Sunderland Foundation to the Via Christi Foundation, which provided the original funds for the area and has helped fund subsequent updates.
"Together with the generosity of our community partners, this project will help patients feel more comfortable transitioning from the hospital back to life," says David Alexander, Foundation president. "This renovation would not have been possible without the Sunderland Foundation and other community donors who recognized its importance in helping restore patients’ independence, confidence and normalcy."
Conco Construction and Alloy Architecture contributed to the concept, building and construction of Easy Street.
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