Can a nursing home patient that has drop foot ever be able to walk once again?

Probably Yes & Help: Foot drop often remains, but can be helped by an AFO ankle foot orthotic. This helps hold the foot at a 90 degree angle and makes walking easier. Often the patient with foot drop is going to need other assistance like a cane or walker to help steady themselves. Get an evaluation by a physical therapist or a doctor specializing in rehabilitation. They are called physiatrists.

Usually: A 'drop foot' can have many causes. Typically, patients with a drop foot can walk with an ankle foot orthosis (afo) and other assistive devices as needed. Occasionally, surgery is recommended for this problem. I recommend an evaluation by a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician or an orthopedic surgeon.