New England Rehabilitation Hospital of Portland

08/01/2025

Summer storms could not dampen the spirits of our NERHP crew as they sailed on the Impossible Dream Catamaran, a universally accessible catamaran. We are proud to support the mission of raising awareness to barrier-free design and to inspire people with disabilities, wounded soldiers, disadvantaged youth and their families to improve their independence and quality of life.

07/31/2025

Have you noticed the foods you once enjoyed don’t quite taste the same? As you get older, your taste buds change for many reasons — some natural, others linked to health conditions or medications. Without the right guidance, these changes can affect your appetite and overall well-being. A registered dietitian shares tips on how to keep your meals tasty as well as healthy as you age.

Why Does Your Sense of Taste Change as You Age? Find out how aging, the olfactory system and other factors can affect taste.

07/31/2025

We’re proud to recognize Emma Dabbraccio, rehab therapy tech, as our employee of the month. Emma is the go-to person in the therapy department. Whether it’s tightening a wheelchair brake or solving complex challenges, she does it all with care and precision. Here’s what her peers had to say:

“Emma, working with you has been such a great experience. You are not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also patient and hardworking. From day one, you took the time to train me and made sure I felt confident. I’m so grateful to work alongside you!”

“Emma is a strong leader and hard worker. She takes on every task with full thought and care. She’s our go-to for everything and more!”

“You step up every day — communicating, assisting with treatment plans, encouraging patients and keeping our tech crew strong through your guidance. Thank you for being so awesome!”

👏 Congratulations, Emma! Your leadership, compassion and commitment inspire us all. Thank you for everything you do!

07/24/2025

Did you know that playing board games could improve brain health and help prevent dementia in older adults? It is a great way to increase working memory and cognitive function as you age. So grab a partner and pick your favorite game. Whether it’s Chess, Scrabble or Checkers, let us know your favorite in the comments.

Games of your youth may be valuable as you age. Play these brain games to prevent dementia and exercise the mind.

07/23/2025

At Encompass Health, recovery isn’t confined to a hospital room. Our patients can engage in outdoor therapy, using nature as a partner in their rehabilitation. Whether it’s practicing walking on different surfaces, engaging in activities like gardening and golf or simply enjoying the fresh air and sunshine — the outdoors plays a powerful role in the healing process.

07/22/2025

Teri Campbell, a 55-year-old elementary school teacher, was admitted to Encompass Health after fracturing her hip and was also diagnosed with cancer. Having missed her yougest son's graduation while she was in the hospital, we didn't want Teri to miss another major event. Her goal was to walk down the aisle and dance with her son at his wedding, and we're thrilled to see that this dream became a reality.

We are so thankful to have been part of Teri’s accomplishments. We wish her all the best with her treatments moving forward!

07/17/2025

After a life-changing diagnosis, it may be difficult to think of all the questions to ask your physician. You may be wondering about your next steps and where to go if you need additional medical care. Ask your doctor these four important questions to help you understand your care and make an informed decision.

After a serious illness or injury, your doctor may recommend post-acute care. Understand the settings, so you can advocate for your care.

07/15/2025

Meet Thelma Cathey, a joyful and determined patient at Encompass Health. Thelma came to us after a hospital stay for complications related to her kidneys. When it came time for rehabilitation, she chose Encompass Health because of the great care her husband received here in the past.

Upon admission, Thelma was weak and needed significant help. But she had a clear goal - to regain her independence with transfers and walking. Through hard work and dedication, she achieved exactly that.On discharge day, Thelma walked out with a big smile and our team couldn’t be prouder of her progress. Congratulations, Thelma!

07/14/2025

If you’re spending time in the water this summer, think before you dive in. Diving is a leading cause of spinal cord injury and can lead to paralysis. Whether you’re at the beach or poolside, remember to jump feet first to avoid an injury that could change your life forever.

07/10/2025

Did you know 15% of caregivers are long-distance? Being a caregiver often comes without a warning after a loved one experiences an accident or illness. It is possible to still care for your loved ones even if you live far away.

Long-distance caregiving can be challenging, but there are ways to stay connected and keep your loved one save, even from afar.

07/09/2025

It’s Therapeutic Recreation Week! In recognition of it, we’re celebrating the incredible impact of recreational therapy in helping our patients recover, rebuild and rediscover what brings them joy. From adaptive games to dancing and golf, our therapy teams are here to help our patients get back to the recreations they love — proving that recreation is more than fun; it’s therapy.

07/08/2025

After experiencing a stroke, Ralph Bagley was uncertain about what the future would hold. He encountered some early setbacks, but with the support of his care team at New England Rehabilitation Hospital of Portland, including Katie Beaudoin, Meaghan Bessette and Alanna Young, he made steady progress in his recovery.

Ralph successfully completed his rehabilitation and celebrated his discharge home by ringing the bell. Reflecting on his experience, he shared his advice for others: “Just stick with it. Work hard. You are not going anywhere, so you might as well work while you are here.”

His dedication and perseverance were key to his success. We wish Ralph continued strength and progress in his recovery.

07/08/2025

Alex Franco was admitted to Encompass Health following a cardiac stent placement. Upon arrival, Alex wanted to get back to doing the things he loves, such exercising, biking and gardening. Alex was also accustomed to starting his mornings with a headstand. He shared that he was doing a headstand every morning prior to his condition. This was a goal for him when he arrived at our hospital - and our team helped him achieve it. Thank you, Alex, for trusting us with your care!

07/04/2025

Happy Independence Day from Encompass Health! Today, we celebrate freedom in every form — especially the hard-earned victories of our patients as they regain strength, confidence and independence.

Across our hospitals, ringing the independence bell marks more than a discharge — it’s a powerful symbol of determination, recovery and the next chapter. Wishing everyone a safe, meaningful and hopeful Fourth of July!

07/03/2025

The kitchen is said to be the heart of the home and the center of family gatherings. Because of that, it is essential to ensure it’s a safe, accessible space, especially for older adults. Falls and burns are the leading causes of household injuries amongst seniors. These tips can help you address safety concerns in the home early.


The kitchen can become unsafe as you get older. Kitchen safety for seniors is possible if you follow some of these tips.

07/02/2025

New England Rehabilitation Hospital of Portland recently celebrated Employee Safety Week with a series of daily events focused on promoting safety at work, at home and in the outdoors.

As part of the week’s activities, staff participated in live fire extinguisher training with support from the South Portland Fire Department. Chief Executive Officer Michelle Fitzgerald led by example, setting the standard for safety and demonstrating proper fire extinguisher use.

06/30/2025

We are proud to celebrate our June employee of the month, Chris Daniel! Chris has been with New England Rehabilitation Hospital of Portland for more than five years. He started here as a CNA and took advantage of our developmental opportunities to become a RN. Our patients and families consistently rave about the high-quality care he provides. He is kindhearted, compassionate and willing to go above and beyond to lend a helping hand with a smile.

Congratulations, Chris, and thank you for everything you do at New England Rehabilitation Hospital of Portland.

06/30/2025

Does advanced age or limited mobility have you concerned about planning your next great getaway? Being a certain age or living with a disability can present challenges when traveling, but today there are more options than ever for those with limited mobility. With some advanced planning, you can visit the destination of your dreams be it by plane, train or automobile.

✈️ Traveling by plane:
- Arrive early. Allow two to three hours for domestic flights and more if traveling internationally.
- Book a wheelchair when you are booking your flight, and let your airline know at check in that you reserved a wheelchair.
- If you require a wheelchair during the flight, the request must be made 48 hours in advance.

🚂 Traveling by train:
- Check to see if discounts apply. Some rail companies offer discounts to those with disabilities or caregivers.
- Be sure to book wheeled mobility device space, wheelchair transfer accessible seats and accessible bedrooms.
- Make sure you to have your proof of disability with you.

🚘️ Traveling by automobile
- Swivel car cushions can help assist you in getting in and out of the vehicle.
- If you use a wheelchair, scooter or powerchair, make sure the vehicle has a lift.
- Check public transportation and ride sharing programs in advance to ensure they have accessible vehicles.

06/23/2025

On National Donut Day, we added a little extra joy to the day by sharing sweet treats with our hardworking and deserving team members. Thank you for all you do! You make every day better!