The prospect of having to go back to the hospital after being able to finally go home is enough to make seniors want to do their best to take care of their health. While hospitals are equipped with everything a person needs to begin healing from an illness or injury, they tend to be set up in a way that just isn’t the same as being at home. Many seniors find themselves stuck in what feels like a revolving door as their time at home leads to new diagnoses that require readmission. Understanding the most common reasons for a senior loved one to be readmitted to the hospital gives you a chance to take preventive action.
Complications from Long-Term Health Conditions
Many seniors already have at least one chronic health condition that increases their risk of complications after hospitalization. For instance, pneumonia is common among those who already have COPD, and seniors with diabetes need to be cautious about infections. A senior with a known heart condition may also experience new symptoms, such as severe chest pains, that land him or her back in the hospital. Make sure your loved one has help managing any chronic conditions. Often, reminding aging adults to take medications on time and watching for the early warning signs of developing problems can prevent readmission.
Many aging adults need assistance when they return home after being hospitalized. 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 Philadelphia, PA, 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.
Infected Wounds
Seniors who have surgery are exposed to new bacteria while they’re in the hospital, and their weakened immune systems leave them vulnerable to developing serious infections after they’re discharged. Proper wound care is essential for keeping the affected area clean and dry until it heals. Seniors should also have their caregivers look for signs of infection so they can seek medical attention before it spreads to the rest of the body.
A professional caregiver can closely monitor your loved one for post-hospitalization complications, including infections. When searching for reliable home care agencies, families want to know their senior loved one 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.
Fall-Related Injuries
Your loved one may get dizzy or experience mobility challenges when he or she gets home. Fall-related injuries are a common reason for seniors to return to the hospital, but they’re also one of the most preventable causes of readmissions. Make sure your loved one has help with potentially risky activities, such as bathing and getting out of bed in the morning. You can also conduct a home assessment to identify any other needs he or she has, such as help with working in the kitchen, where he or she may need to walk on wet surfaces.
Medication Mishaps
Medication mishaps are another preventable reason for readmission. Always make sure both you and your loved one understand the discharge instructions that explain how and when to take any new medications. Speak with your loved one’s pharmacist and nurses to double-check your understanding of which medications he or she must take after returning home. Then set up a medication management plan that includes at least one other person checking each day to make sure all medications are taken correctly.
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support for a senior who’s recovering after being hospitalized. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of home care. Philadelphia Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (215) 645-4663 today.