6 Facts Families Should Know about Discharge & Readmission

Once your elderly loved one leaves the hospital, the recovery process truly begins. To provide high-quality care and prevent readmission, you must understand your loved one’s condition and receive as many tips from medical providers as possible. Below you’ll find important information about hospital discharge and readmission.

1. Discharge Planners Are There to Help

Many families believe they’re on their own and worry about what life outside the hospital will be like for their elderly loved ones. The truth is there are discharge planners at the hospital who will give you the information and tips necessary for a successful recovery. A planner will help you coordinate information and care following your loved one’s discharge, which could lower the risk of readmission. A professional caregiver can monitor your loved one for post-hospitalization complications and safety risks, reducing the chances of readmission. When searching for reliable senior care agencies, families want to know their senior loved ones will be well taken care of. At Home Care Assistance, our expertly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with tasks around the house, provide transportation to medical appointments and social events, and much more.

2. All Questions Are Relevant

During the discharge process, speak up and ask any question that comes to mind. Your failure to fully understand the discharge process and your loved one’s options could be detrimental to his or her health. Don’t sign the discharge paperwork until all your questions are answered. Everyone who will be providing care for your parent should be present during the discharge process to ask questions and receive printed information.

3. It’s Crucial to Make Sure Your Loved One Is Ready for Discharge

Being discharged doesn’t mean seniors have healed and fully recovered. It means they’re capable of going home. If you believe your loved one should stay in the hospital for a few more days, you must relay your concerns to the doctor and insurance provider. Going home before he or she is ready could increase your loved one’s risk of failed treatment and hospital readmission. If staying in the hospital isn’t an option, your loved one might qualify for in-home care or rehabilitation at another facility. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Des Moines, IA, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.

4. Medication Mishaps Are Common

Many hospital readmissions are due to preventable medication errors. Clearly understanding the medicines your parent is taking and why could reduce the risk of medication mishaps and make treatment more effective. Speak with the doctor and pharmacist to learn about the prescriptions, and share this information with your loved one.

5. Follow-Up Appointments Are Key

The first few weeks following discharge are crucial to preventing hospital readmission. During this time, your loved one should attend at least one follow-up appointment with his or her physician. At the doctor’s visit, your loved one can share his or her reactions to medications as well as other relevant information. If treatment isn’t working, his or her primary care physician can alter the current plan. Failing to attend these appointments could lead to readmission and indirectly cause other health issues to develop.

6. There Are Several Common Causes of Readmission

Seniors account for the vast majority of hospital readmissions. Although age is a crucial factor, it’s not the only cause. Mood disorders, substance abuse, lack of help around the home, and poor lifestyle habits can increase the risk of readmission among older adults. Make sure your loved one has high-quality care at home, and consider hiring a respite caregiver to help out during the first few months of recovery. The professional caregiver will know the top conditions associated with readmissions and the best ways to facilitate the transition from the hospital to home. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Home Care Assistance is a leading Des Moines elder care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life. Rely on the professionals at Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate care for your loved one. Give us a call today at (515) 264-2438 to learn about our flexible in-home care plans.