When an elderly or disabled person is discharged from the hospital after a serious visit, their healthcare and recovery does not stop at the door. Many elderly people, especially those who live alone, can be in danger of worsening their condition without assistance. There are a number of complications that can arise after your loved one is discharged from the hospital. It is important that they have the assistance and home care needed to make a proper recovery after their hospital visit. By hiring a home healthcare aide or nurse; you can have peace of mind as your loved one recovers.
Maintaining Independence
Some elderly and disabled individuals will not want a home healthcare aide or nurse to take care of them because they do not want to lose their sense of independence. This is a valid concern, but your loved one should know that you are bringing in assistance for their own health and safety. Home healthcare aides are not there to encroach on their independence, but to keep them safe and healthy.
It is very common for those who undergo a serious hospital visit or operation to require more specialized care at home in order to properly recover. Without these services, an older adults’ odds of being readmitted to the hospital within 30 or 60 days can double. After a serious hospital visit, living independently can be dangerous for older adults.
After a Hospital Stay
Victims of falls, heart attacks, strokes, and more are better off having some assistance at home after being discharged from the hospital. After a fall or other physical injury, an elderly person may have trouble getting around the house, bathing, and more. Bruised areas and broken bones need to rest in order to recover.
After a life threatening episode such as a heart attack or stroke, an elderly person may need constant care and assistance. But for at least the first few weeks after the hospital discharge, the elderly person should receive some home care and monitoring. At least 1 in 4 stroke victims will suffer from another one within the year. After the first heart attack, the risk suffering from of a second one can increase.
After Surgery
For those who underwent surgery at the hospital, home healthcare can be vital for the proper treatment of the affected area. Infection, bed sores, and further complications can be quick to follow if the elderly person does not receive sufficient care. Anti-inflammatory and/or antibiotic medications need to be properly taken as prescribed for proper recovery.
Medicare Assistance
Under Medicare, your loved one can receive coverage for the home health care assistance for their recovery. This can be vital for many elderly individuals who may not be able to afford this care otherwise. In most cases, medicare will usually cover 4 to 6 weeks of home health care after a hospital discharge.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical or healthcare advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact Safe Harbor at (718)-979-6900.
