Even though hospital stays are frequently required for medical care, they can be frightening for seniors, especially if significant changes are required. In these instances, what happens after discharge is crucial to ensuring seniors not only have the right support but also understand why post-hospital care is needed so they’re more welcome to the change.
The good news is that there are ways to help seniors adjust to the requirements of a post-hospital care plan.
Recognizing the Need for Support
It is crucial for the post-hospital care plan discussion to include seniors in a way that helps them feel connected, valued, and supported. This open communication style can go a long way toward their acceptance of help after their hospital stay. Additionally, this discussion should include the many reasons why post-hospital care is vital, including the following:
- Physical Recuperation: Seniors may continue to experience physical recovery following a hospital stay. Even routine tasks like getting out of bed or cooking could now need help or adjustments. For a complete recovery, physical therapy, rehabilitation activities, and home care to assist them with their daily tasks are key.
- Medication Management: Seniors are frequently prescribed new medications after a hospital stay, or have their current prescriptions altered. This can be confusing and cause missed doses. It is essential to their well-being to receive assistance with organizing and effectively administering their medications. Plus, when skilled nursing is part of post-hospital care, seniors also gain valuable education about their medications.
- Mobility Challenges: Following a hospital stay, some seniors may find that their mobility has lessened as a result of surgery, an injury, or illness. It could be challenging for them to move around the house safely or carry out everyday tasks on their own as a result. Loved ones can talk with the medical team and home care about possible changes that are needed to ensure seniors are safe to return home.
- Emotional Support: A hospital is often emotionally exhausting, especially for seniors who may already be coping with aging or chronic health issues. Adapting to life after hospitalization may cause stress, anxiety, or despair. Having emotional support during this time can greatly impact their well-being. While loved ones are able to provide this, adding home health to the mix increases the support seniors have.
Encouraging Seniors to Participate in Their Recovery Plan
As mentioned, seniors should be included in the post-hospital care plan discussion. Loved ones can encourage them by offering the following advice:
- Speak up and explore concerns about transitioning back home.
- Ask questions to ensure a complete understanding of the post-hospital care plan.
- Take notes about any necessary follow-up appointments, new medications, or lifestyle changes needed for successful recovery.
- Explore feelings about accepting assistance.
- Follow recommendations about physical activity to increase strength and flexibility, which improves recovery.
- Be open to receiving assistance and building a strong support system.
Seniors may find it difficult to adjust to life outside of the hospital following a stay, but a successful recovery is achievable with the correct help and post hospital care services at home. By acknowledging when they require assistance and acting on helpful advice, seniors can maintain their independence while putting a priority on their health and well-being.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Post Hospital Care in Livermore, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
Call (866)-940-4855
Sources:
- https://www.marquiscompanies.com/blog/what-is-post-hospital-care-for-seniors
- https://carepatrol.com/blog/after-hospital-care-for-seniors-what-families-should-know/
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