Hospitalizations can be extremely distressing for seniors. Additionally, the recovery process may not finish when they are discharged. In fact, post hospital care can be critical to ensure they recover their strength, avoid complications, and remain out of the hospital in the future. But how do loved ones determine whether a senior is struggling and needs post hospital care or assistance?

Keep reading to learn more.

Physical Weakness and Fatigue

Physical weakness or fatigue that persists after being discharged from the hospital is a strong sign that the senior requires additional care. Even after discharge, persistent weariness or trouble performing simple tasks such as walking to the bathroom, getting out of bed, or preparing a meal may indicate that they are not recuperating adequately.

Seniors who are extremely fatigued are at risk of falling and injuring themselves, making supervision and help vital.

Changes in Mobility

Changes in mobility are another issue that can arise following a hospital stay. If family members notice that seniors are shuffling, limping, or appearing unbalanced, it could indicate persistent physical issues that may lead to accidents.

Additionally, monitoring their ability to climb stairs or walk on various surfaces is important. Issues may call for post hospital care, such as physical therapy, to help them regain strength and improve their balance.

Confusion or Cognitive Decline

Hospital stays and accompanying therapies might occasionally impact seniors from a cognitive standpoint. This could be related to anesthesia’s residual effects, drug side effects, or a condition known as “post-hospital delirium.”

Loved ones should be on the alert for signs of disorientation, forgetfulness, or agitation, which may impair their ability to manage medications, appointments, or even basic daily tasks. Without proper monitoring and care, cognitive decline can quickly become deadly.

Difficulty Managing Medicines

Hospital discharges frequently include new prescriptions or changes in dosages. Because of this, seniors might struggle to keep up, which could result in missing doses or overdosing. Family members should check to see if their loved one appears stressed or confused about their prescriptions, or if it seems like they might be missing doses.

As part of the post hospital care plan, skilled nursing may need to be brought in to help them acclimate to their new medications.

Neglecting Personal Hygiene or Home Environment

Neglecting personal hygiene or the home environment might also be a sign that seniors are struggling. If a loved one isn’t showering, changing clothing, or doing simple housework, it could be because they don’t have the stamina or mental clarity to look after themselves. This is especially concerning if they live alone and have no one to help them with their everyday activities.

In these instances, post hospital care through home health is extremely beneficial.

Social Withdrawal or Depression

Emotional well-being is equally vital to physical health during the rehabilitation process. Seniors who appear withdrawn, depressed, or uninterested in previously enjoyable activities may be suffering from depression or anxiety as a result of their hospitalization. Post-hospital depression is not uncommon and can impede the healing process, so taking steps toward assisting seniors with this is key.

Recognizing these signs early on will help ensure that seniors receive appropriate post hospital care, whether home health, physical therapy, or some other type of service. Ultimately, when seniors get the care they need, they can recuperate more quickly and start enjoying life that much more.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Post Hospital Care in Tracy, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.

Call (866)-940-4855

Sources:

• https://www.agingcare.com/articles/post-hospital-care-155508.htm
• https://www.washingtoninternalmedicine.com/blog/the-importance-of-hospital-follow-up-ensuring-continued-care-and-recovery
• https://caregiver.com/articles/hospital-discharge/
• https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/caregiving/transition-of-care-from-hospital-to-home

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andy@hcprosonline.com

CEO at HomeCare Professionals

Andy Howardis a Bay Area Native who holds a BA in Political Science (University of Colorado at Boulder, ’97). After college Andy worked in the surging tech industry.His Grandmother however, would suffer a significant decline in health and ultimately needed in-home care. The experience of a loved one depending on outside help to age in place proved to be pivotal for Andy as he left the tech industry in 2002 for an opportunity in the home care world with a large provider. After having success in home care, but being frustrated by corporate constraints Andy founded HomeCare Professionals in 2005.He methodically built the company one client at a time by focusing on hiring quality caregivers to ensure positive outcomes. Currently Andy serves as the CEO of HomeCare Professionals and is also highly active in the non-profit organization California Association of Health Services at Home (CAHSAH) which advocates for a higher standard of in-home care for those who wish to remain living at home in California.

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