Early preparation is vital to senior care after a hospital discharge. If you have an elderly loved one about to be discharged, anticipate their post-hospitalization needs. Hospitalization can be disorienting for anyone, and seniors may find regaining their independence particularly challenging. By preparing in advance, you can make a smooth transition from the hospital and aid in their full recovery. Below are essential elements of a post-hospital care plan.
Medical-related senior care
Communication with your loved one’s doctor is paramount before their discharge. This conversation will provide critical insights into the type of post-hospital care needed, any activity or dietary restrictions, and other lifestyle adjustments. Other essential questions to ask are about potential warning signs of relapse. Gathering this information will help you prepare effectively for their care at home.
Also, gather information about any medications your loved ones may be taking, including medication schedules and whether you need to know about any food or drug interactions to avoid. If you will be sharing duties with other family caregivers, share this medication management information with them to ensure everyone is on the same page and to minimize any possible medication issues.
Assistive technologies
Another primary consideration is whether you and your loved ones will need any devices to help with senior care after a hospital discharge at home. For example, you may need to install safety rails on the bathtub. When a senior requires the use of mobility aids, such as a walker or a wheelchair, you should make sure there will be plenty of room within their home for these devices. Below are some examples of assistive devices you may need to consider when caring for seniors:
Mobility Aids
- Canes
- Walkers
- Wheelchairs
- Grab bars
- Shower chairs
Daily Living Aids
- Reacher grabbers
- Sock aids
- Dressing sticks
- Elevated toilet seats
- Bathing benches
Along the same lines, be informed about whether your loved ones will come home with any medical equipment, such as oxygen tanks or health monitors. Be sure you understand what they will have and how those devices operate. This understanding will make you feel informed and prepared for their care at home.
Lifestyle assistance
Coordinating and sharing caregiving duties among family members is essential for effective medical care for a senior after a hospital discharge. Here are some tips for coordinating and sharing caregiving responsibilities:
- Schedule Regular Family Meetings: Establish regular family meetings to discuss the caregiving plan and any updates regarding the senior’s condition. These meetings allow family members to share concerns, coordinate schedules, and address challenges.
- Create a Caregiving Schedule: Develop a caregiving schedule that outlines each family member’s responsibilities, including tasks such as medication management, meal preparation, transportation to medical appointments, and providing companionship. A clear care plan and schedule can help ensure that all necessary tasks are covered and no one feels overwhelmed by the responsibilities.
- Use Technology to Coordinate: Utilize shared calendars, messaging apps, or caregiving management platforms to keep everyone informed and coordinated. This can help family members stay updated on the senior’s needs, appointments, and any changes to the caregiving schedule.
- Delegate Based on Strengths and Availability: Assign tasks based on each family member’s strengths and availability. For example, a family member who is good at meal planning and preparation could take on cooking duties. At the same time, someone with a flexible work schedule could assist with transportation to medical appointments.
- Consider Professional Caregiver Assistance: If the caregiving responsibilities are extensive, consider hiring professional caregiver assistance to provide additional support. Professional caregivers can help fill in gaps in the family’s caregiving schedule and provide specialized care for seniors’ needs.
