Tips To Help Your Loved One Transition Post-Acute Care

Taking care of your loved one post-hospital stay can be a challenging task. There are probably tons of questions running through your head. How can I make this a smooth transition? Or, how can I make sure they are still receiving the care they need to meet their needs? 1+1 Cares is here to address your concerns and help guide you on how to navigate the challenges of post-acute care. You can meet your aging parent’s needs after their hospital stay by choosing the right post-acute care setting option and trying out the following tips.

Post-acute care options

There are a variety of post-acute care settings to choose for your parent after their hospital stay. Review and discuss with them and their medical staff what option is best for them and their needs.

1. In-home post-acute care

If your loved one is stable enough to stay at home, you can provide in-home care yourself or hire someone to assist them. Hiring a caregiver or home health aide can allow you to have a caregiving break while still fulfilling their needs. They can help with day-to-day tasks such as meals, bathing, and giving medication.

2. Inpatient rehabilitation facilities

Inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRF) can be a good option if they temporarily need more rigorous physical therapy, speech pathology, or around-the-clock care. IRFs can be beneficial to stroke patients.

3. Skilled nursing facilities

If your parent needs a slightly higher level of care, you should consider a skilled nursing facility (SNF). SNFs are not the same as nursing homes because they’re more for short-term needs such as speed and language therapy or complex wound care. They can provide that smooth transition between a hospital stay and in-home care.

4. Long-term care hospitals

Long-term hospitals (LTCHs) usually take on patients who are transferred from a critical care unit at another hospital. If your loved one no longer needs intensive care but has a more serious condition, this post-care setting may be the right option for them. LTCHs can offer things such as pain management, respiratory treatment, or head trauma treatment.

Tips for post-acute care

1. Make safety modifications

If you will be caring for your loved one at home, you may need to make home safety modifications to the living spaces. For example, if they are recovering from a back injury, they may need a handrail in the bathroom to help with balance. Adjusting to changes in their mobility and daily life can allow for a smoother transition from the hospital to the home.

2. Pay attention and follow specific instructions

As you’re leaving the hospital, you may have a lot of questions about how to plan for your loved one’s post-acute care. Don’t be afraid to ask! Take note of the instructions they provide you such as when they take medications or go to physical therapy. Knowing what to expect can make you feel more comfortable about the transition as well as help you set a plan.

3. Plan ahead for follow-up appointments

Even though your parent is leaving the hospital, it does not mean they will not need follow-up care. Be prepared for what appointments they will need and schedule them with the hospital. Getting ahead can help prevent complications and allow for a smooth transition.

Educating yourself on post-acute care options and tips can allow you to make your loved one’s post-acute care transition as smooth as possible. Have a discussion with them and their medical team about what setting option is right for them and how you can meet their needs after their hospital stay.

1+1 Cares is a referral agency that works for clients and caregivers. We match caregivers with clients and inform them of your requirements. We work for you so you and your loved one can have a safe, enjoyable caregiving experience.