SEHA’s Salma Rehabilitation Hospital in Abu Dhabi has highlighted the rehabilitation journey of an Emirati woman living with a progressive neuromuscular condition, demonstrating how personalised care and assistive technology can support independence, communication and participation in daily life.
After experiencing gradual physical decline and becoming dependent on others for daily activities, the patient received an individualised care plan based on her long-term needs, personal goals and strengths. The programme focused on comfort, communication, participation and preserving meaningful independence.
A multidisciplinary team comprising physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and education and recreation specialists supported her progress. Assistive technology has played a key role, particularly a toe-controlled device that allows her to navigate digital platforms, communicate more independently and create digital content.
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With this support, she has developed digital and vocational skills, prepared her CV and begun exploring potential part-time employment opportunities, including a possible library role.
Nouf Alhadrami, Physiotherapist at Salma Rehabilitation Hospital, said: “This journey reminds us that rehabilitation is not always about reversing a condition. In long-term care, success can mean comfort, participation, and maintaining control over life decisions. She is not defined by her limitations, but by the way she continues to engage, express herself, and shape her daily life.”
Shahnaz Ansari, Occupational Therapist at Salma Rehabilitation Hospital, said: “Occupational therapy focuses on meaningful activity and purpose. For her, independence has been reimagined through technology, digital skills, and vocational readiness. Being able to type, create, prepare a CV, and work towards employment are important milestones that reflect her determination and the value of personalised rehabilitation.”
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As part of SEHA’s integrated healthcare network, Salma Rehabilitation Hospital continues to provide tailored rehabilitation programmes for people with complex conditions, combining multidisciplinary expertise, assistive technologies and personalised support to improve quality of life.
