Being discharged from the hospital after a treatment or procedure can be notably stressful for those aged 65+. There may be follow-up visits with a specialist, therapy sessions, and trips to your primary care doctor's office. Enjoying a smoother transition from hospital to home requires the ability to plan accordingly and stay the course based on your discharge instructions. In addition to enlisting the support of family and friends, a professional caregiver can be an invaluable resource while recovering in the safety and comfort of your own home.
Why Seniors Get Admitted to the Hospital
More than 800,000 seniors in the U.S. get hospitalized after falling each year. Many endure extended hospital stays because of injuries such as hip fractures, broken bones, and head trauma.
According to AARP, these are other common reasons for hospital admissions in the elderly:
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Congestive heart failure
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Coronary atherosclerosis
- Diabetes
- Infection
- Medication problems
- Pneumonia
- Stroke
The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Caregiver
Transitional care can be even more challenging when your loved ones are busy or live far away. A professional caregiver from a reputable home care provider will have the training and experience to fill that void while providing you with these recovery benefits:
Transportation
Once you get discharged from the hospital there will likely be prescriptions to pick up, therapy sessions to attend, and follow-up doctor's appointments. A caregiver can help coordinate rides or safely transport you to and from where you need to be, so you stay on schedule.
Companionship
Nobody likes to be alone for very long, most notably someone who just got out of the hospital. A hired "personal assistant" can help keep you entertained, making the healing process much more tolerable. Spend time with your newfound companion watching old movies, going through photo albums, sharing some laughs, or playing your favorite board games.
Medication reminders
Medication management can be problematic for older adults even under the best of circumstances. Missing several doses because your memory is still fuzzy isn't going to facilitate a faster healing process. On the other hand, having a caregiver around that can remind you to take your meds as prescribed may be "just what the doctor ordered" when no one else is available.
Light housework
If your house is messy, you'll be tempted to clean it instead of getting the rest your body needs to heal. A professional caregiver can help ease the burden for you and your family by cleaning, doing laundry, and performing other household chores.
Dietary assistance
Not only is a well-balanced diet good for your recovery, but your doctor may also have ordered food restrictions that must be followed. An in-home caregiver can assist you with food shopping, meal preparation, cleanup, and more while helping you maintain your prescribed diet.
Communication
Remembering what the doctor said in the exam room isn't always easy. While serving as a patient advocate, your caregiver can sit in on doctor appointments, take notes, and then share key points with family and friends.
Mobility assistance
If your mobility is limited, a caregiver can help you safely get in and out of bed or the shower/ bathtub. They will be able to establish clear pathways throughout the home to minimize fall risks and prepare a place for you to sleep downstairs if your bedroom is located on the upper level.
Personal care
Activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and toileting can be tricky after transitioning from hospital to home. A trained professional can seamlessly handle your personal care needs so that you – and your loved ones – can sleep better at night!