Segment 1 An active 93-year-old woman is seen doing chores and shopping for food. The narrator explains that the elderly, although more susceptible to injury and illness, can lead healthy and active lives with the help of active therapy. A home for the aged is seen. Various patients who are being treated there are seen exercising. One case study, Mrs Lewis, is introduced. Her left side is paralysed from a stroke. She has a basic neuromuscular examination and a test to see her physical movement abilities. The head doctor meets Mrs Lewis' daughter, who tells him about Mrs Lewis' daily routine. Time start: 00:00:00:00 Time end: 00:07:40:09 Length: 00:07:40:09
Segment 2 Mrs Lewis is examined by the head doctor. She appears confused but the narrator notes that 'senility' is not a useful word to use. He also notes that rehabilitation must begin as soon as possible before poor mental and muscular patterns become fixed. The care team give her a goal to work towards - to go to the bathroom by herself. She is visited by a physiotherapist and learns to move her left leg using her right leg. She sits on the edge of the bed by herself and sits in her wheelchair. Eventually she learns to control her wheelchair. This avoids prolonged bedrest and soon Mrs Lewis will be able to go to the bathroom by herself. Victims with more severe symptoms are seen doing speech therapy and having massages. Time start: 00:07:40:09 Time end: 00:15:12:21 Length: 00:07:32:12
Segment 3 Another patient is seen living in a flat that has been adapted for a wheelchair. Another patient, Mrs Farber, is seen. She is strong-willed and angry that she cannot do things for herself anymore. The narrator reminds carers that such patients, although more difficult to care for, should not be left in bed. Various patients are seen exercising and doing activities for themselves. Time start: 00:15:12:21 Time end: 00:22:17:10 Length: 00:07:04:14
Segment 4 A new male patient joins the care home but is suspicious of it and the staff. However, a visit by former patients resassures him. A former violinist is ashamed and afraid of the loss of use of his hands, and the narrator notes that in such cases, a psychiatrist may be helpful. More patients are seen exercising their legs and learning to walk again. Time start: 00:22:17:10 Time end: 00:29:46:00 Length: 00:07:28:15
Segment 5 Mrs Lewis is making progress and is learning to walk with braces on her legs. The narrator mentions that is important to support patients' spirits as well as their physical efforts. He says that nurturing pride in appearance and surroundings is a good motivation to continue exercising. Some examples of patients who are improving are seen. Mrs Lewis is seen leaving the hospice and returning home. Time start: 00:29:46:00 Time end: 00:38:06:07 Length: 00:08:20:07