How Can Non-Medical In-Home Care Reduce Hospital Readmissions?

The professionals at Always Best Care Asheville have assisted numerous seniors with the transition from the hospital back into their homes. In most cases this is a joyous occasion, as elderly individuals are frequently ecstatic to finally return to the comfort of their own beds and familiar surroundings; however, hospital readmissions are high when seniors lack the support necessary to make this transition in a positive, healthy manner. You see, elderly individuals frequently need a bit of extra help with regard to home care when they leave the hospital. With the assistance of non-medical care professionals, tasks like grooming and dressing can change from daunting and potentially dangerous to simple activities.

Where Is the Danger in This Transition?
The first thought that comes to mind when seniors are told they are going home after a hospital stay is frequently, "Finally!" After days or even weeks in a medical facility, getting home is often the first priority of elderly individuals. But the truth is that this is not as simple a task as it may seem at first glance.

After a senior leaves the hospital they are often vulnerable. For instance, they may find it more difficult to navigate their home if they are using a wheelchair, walker, or cane. Additionally, they may face challenges when getting dressed or executing personal hygiene activities, such as bathing, if they are facing a reduction in their range of motion. As such, trying to jump into their old routine on their own can prove dangerous, and can lead to hospital readmissions if seniors fall, open their stitches, or have other types of accidents.

Elder Care: A Wonderful Solution
For seniors who are physically ready to leave the hospital but not yet strong enough to navigate life on their own, non-medical in-home care is a fantastic solution. Through this form of elder care, seniors can receive assistance with the activities of daily living while they continue to heal and regain their strength. Dressing, grooming, bathing, meal preparation, and even light housework are all activities that senior care professionals can perform to help your loved one ease into life at home rather than jump into their old habits.