Concierge: David Paritzky
Patient: Atena D
Patient Age: 79
Admitted: 5/21/2026
Admitted From: Mount Sinai Hospital
Discharge Date: 07/02/2025
Discharge To: Home
Length of Stay: Approximately 1.5 months
Reason For Stay: Deconditioning following knee replacement surgery.
Details of Experience:
Atena D was admitted to The Riverside on May 21, 2026, following a successful knee replacement surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital. As she prepared for discharge from the hospital, she wanted a rehabilitation facility known for providing high-quality therapy and compassionate care. Luckily, her niece, an employee at Mount Sinai, highly recommended The Riverside for its reputation in rehabilitation services. Upon admission, Atena arrived motivated to regain her mobility and independence so she could safely return home and resume her regular lifestyle.
When Atena arrived at The Riverside, she was welcomed into a supportive, caring, and recovery-focused environment. A comprehensive assessment was done as soon as she was settled in. She was evaluated by nurses, dietary services, physical and occupational therapists, social work, and the concierge team. One of her initial challenges was adjusting to the food. Given that Atena is from the Dominican Republic, she was accustomed to traditional dishes and found it difficult to adapt to the standard menu. After discussing her concerns with the dietary department, the dietitian worked closely with her to create meal options that aligned with her preferences while supporting her recovery. This personalized approach greatly improved her dining experience and overall stay at the Riverside. Atena also had difficulty with her initial roommate. After sharing her concerns with the social worker, the issue was addressed right away. A room change was arranged, and she was placed with a roommate who turned out to be a much better fit. She greatly appreciated how quickly and compassionately the staff responded, allowing her to feel comfortable and settled for the remainder of her stay. During her initial therapy evaluations, she was able to walk only short distances and had a significant limp due to pain, weakness, and limited mobility following surgery. Her individualized care plan focused on improving strength, balance, functional mobility, pain management, and independence with activities of daily living through occupational and physical therapy.
Atena demonstrated steady and impressive progress throughout her stay. She actively participated in physical and occupational therapy and remained motivated to achieve the recovery goals set by her therapists. As time went on and therapy progressed, she significantly improved her ability to transfer independently, sit and stand safely, and remain stable while walking. Her strength, endurance, and confidence increased each week, allowing her to become more functional in her daily activities and prepare for a safe discharge home. Atena always spoke about the kindness and professionalism of the Riverside team. She appreciated the individualized attention she received from every department and felt that her concerns were always heard and addressed. The accommodations made regarding both her dietary preferences and room arrangements helped make her rehab experience comfortable and successful. Atena’s progress is an excellent example of how personalized care can support both physical recovery and overall patient satisfaction.
Atena is scheduled to be discharged home on July 2, 2026, after successfully completing approximately six weeks of short-term rehabilitation. At discharge, she is able to walk more functionally, perform transfers independently, and safely return to her home environment. She plans to return to the Dominican Republic to spend time and reunite with her family. While there, she is planning on continuing some outpatient physical therapy. Atena has expressed sincere gratitude to the entire Riverside team for helping her regain her mobility and confidence. She shared that every member of the staff, starting from nursing and therapy to dietary, social services, and concierge, treated her with kindness, compassion, and respect throughout her recovery. She credits the team with helping her regain not only her independence but also her quality of life, and she leaves The Riverside with appreciation, confidence, and excitement for the future. She highly recommends The Riverside and its services to anyone in a similar position to hers.