Hospital stays can be stressful for anyone, but for seniors—especially those dealing with multiple health issues like dementia—the experience can be even more challenging. Surprisingly, research shows that 20% of seniors on Medicare end up back in the hospital within 30 days of discharge, with many readmissions occurring within 7-14 days.
To address this issue, Tranquil Touch Health has developed a “Healing at Home” program. This initiative provides non-medical support to help seniors successfully adjust to their homes after hospitalization. The goal is to minimize preventable incidents or mishaps at home that could lead to a return admission to the hospital or emergency room.
Dressing, personal grooming, bathing, toileting, mobility, and transfers.
Personal caregivers can also assist with errands, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and medication reminders.
Your Tranquil Touch Health team keeps a watchful eye on your loved one during recovery, promptly reporting any concerns. Early identification helps prevent readmissions.
Our caregivers offer social interaction to reduce senior isolation.
Hospitalizations can take a toll on seniors, affecting their functional abilities, independence, and overall quality of life. After leaving the hospital, many seniors experience challenges with basic tasks at home, especially if they have chronic conditions or are recovering from significant health events or surgeries.
Medical experts now recognize a phenomenon called “post-hospitalization syndrome.” This occurs several weeks after discharge, during which seniors may be vulnerable to symptoms and conditions that increase their risk of rehospitalization. Some patients may even face an elevated risk of death during this period.
Lingering fatigue
Weakness
Cognitive fog
Bowel or bladder issues
Increased disorientation
Disruptions to sleep patterns, diet, routines, and activity levels
Heightened stress and anxiety
Medication-related side effects
Post-hospitalization syndrome can make seniors more susceptible to falls, condition relapses, or other adverse events. Additionally, they may struggle with self-care, household tasks, medication management, medical appointments, and symptom communication with their healthcare team.
Tranquil Touch Health has developed the “Healing at Home Discharge Guide to facilitate a senior loved one’s successful transition home from a hospital or rehabilitation facility. This guide allows you to:
Record vital information discussed with healthcare providers
Identify areas where assistance is needed
Determine who (family, friends, neighbors, or Visiting Angels) can help coordinate care at home
After returning home, you or your loved one can refer to the “Ready, Set, Go Home” Discharge Guide for essential information and notes from healthcare providers. It’s also a helpful tool for follow-up medical appointments, ensuring comprehensive care directives and addressing any questions that arise
Professional caregivers can visit your senior loved one in the hospital or rehabilitation facility and establish a customized plan before discharge. This ensures peace of mind for you and tailored care for your loved one. With input from both you and the healthcare team, Tranquil Touch Health will create a home care plan that meets your senior’s specific needs.
If your loved one requires senior care after a hospital stay, consider learning more about the “Ready, Set, Go Home” program from Tranquil Touch Health. Contact us to request a free consultation.