Tips for Preventing Hospital Readmissions in Seniors
Post-hospital care helps seniors recovery better, safer, and faster after a hospital stay.
Hospital readmissions are a major concern, particularly among seniors. Returning to the hospital can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining on seniors and their families. However, with proactive measures, many readmissions can be avoided. Two of the most important steps are understanding and closely following the post-hospital care plan, as well as utilizing support systems such as home care services.
Paying Attention to the Post-Hospital Care Plan
A comprehensive post-hospital care plan is the foundation for recovery. This plan, normally issued at discharge, includes medication schedules, dietary advice, activity limits, and follow-up appointments. It is essential that loved ones and seniors understand this plan as it guides recovery.
Even better? Open and clear communication leading up to discharge can provide loved ones with an understanding of what the plan might include before it is written in stone. This allows them to set up home care, gain access to medical devices that might be needed, and make adjustments to the home if necessary.
Medication Management
Seniors frequently face difficulties managing multiple prescriptions, especially when those medications change after a hospital stay. Loved ones can help ensure that prescriptions are taken exactly as prescribed by using tools such as pill organizers or medication reminder apps.
Additionally, they may consider adding skilled nursing to the support team to assist with this, as well as monitor seniors for side effects or interactions.
Diet and Nutrition
Following the post-hospital care plan when it comes to dietary recommendations is essential. For example, a low-sodium diet may be required for cardiac patients, while high-protein meals can improve recuperation from surgery.
Again, communication with the healthcare team is essential in this regard, giving seniors and their families a clear understanding of what they should and shouldn’t eat to ensure the best possible recovery and ongoing care.
Attend All Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up appointments allow healthcare providers to monitor the senior’s recovery and address potential issues early on. These visits might also include adjustments to medication to keep healing on track. Loved ones may need to encourage seniors to make and keep these appointments, along with offering transportation when needed.
When this isn’t possible, post-hospital care providers can assist, allowing family members to focus on other pending tasks while ensuring their loved ones get the support they need.
Focus on Home Safety and Accessibility
As mentioned, the post-hospital care plan might include modifications that may be needed at home. Post-hospital care providers can help loved ones assess the senior’s space and make recommendations to ensure optimal safety. Some modifications that may be needed include removing or repairing loose carpeting, installing grab bars in bathrooms, and ensuring the home has enough lighting.
Monitor for Warning Signs
Recognizing early signs of problems is essential to avoiding readmission. With post-hospital care and family members monitoring seniors for signs such as shortness of breath, edema, fever, or changes in behavior, they gain the support and care they need right away.
A proactive, comprehensive approach is required to reduce hospital readmissions among seniors. Seniors can recover safely and confidently by carefully following the post-hospital care plan, attending follow-ups, and utilizing home care services.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Post-Hospital Care in Wilmette, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 948-0860. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette, and the surrounding areas.
Sources:
- https://familycaregiversonline.net/strategies-to-reduce-hospital-readmissions-among-older-adults/
- https://familycaregiversonline.net/10-was-to-get-your-home-ready-after-the-hospital/
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000432.htm
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