The first few weeks after being discharged from the hospital can be a vulnerable time for older adults who may still be recovering from a recent illness or adjusting to new medications. Hospital readmissions are all too common when certain precautions aren’t taken to ensure safety during this period. Older adults and their loved ones should take the following strategies into consideration for avoiding the most common post-hospital complications.
Review Discharge Instructions
During discharge from the hospital, older adults and their family members are often given a list of instructions to follow during the recovery period. However, these instructions are often complicated and may include information regarding medications, changes to the senior’s diet, and new restrictions for his or her daily routine. After returning home, it’s important to review the instructions again and make sure everyone involved with your senior loved one’s care understands any changes to the care plan.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of home care. Huntsville Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Older adults who have recently returned home from the hospital may still not be back to their normal level of abilities. While your loved one may not be feeling well, it’s important to ensure he or she attends follow-up appointments. During these appointments, your loved one’s physician will check for signs of infection and make sure your loved one is making progress in recovery. Seniors who aren’t ready to drive may need transportation assistance to get them to these essential appointments.
A professional in-home caregiver can provide transportation to your loved one’s medical appointments. Elderly home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
Consider Post-Hospital Care Assistance
Many post-hospital complications can arise when older adults attempt to take on too much. Household chores, medication management, and personal hygiene needs can all be better managed with post-hospital care assistance from a professional caregiver.
Some families need help providing care after an aging relative has been discharged from the hospital. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior loved one in Huntsville, respite care is available when you need time away from your important caregiving duties. At Home Care Assistance, our respite caregivers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help your loved one manage everyday tasks in the comfort of home while you have the chance to take a much-needed break. To schedule a no-obligation, please give us a call today at (256) 716-9940.