While hospital stays are generally unpleasant, there’s few feelings better than finally being discharged from one. The road to recovery is many times long and difficult, but getting back to your home and life is a significant milestone. Most people prefer to recuperate at home, but even when it’s an option, the help and care needed must be considered.
Home health skilled nursing that follows the care plan laid out by your doctor can help to guide you back to health and wellness in the comfort of your own home surroundings. Registered home nurses can provide such skilled medical care as wound care, monitoring vitals, administering medications, assisting with physical therapy, and other medical care.
You can also benefit from an in-home care agency to provide nonmedical services and assistance with the activities of daily living as you heal. A home caregiver can assist with tasks like cooking, cleaning, dressing, bathing, grooming, and transportation.
Studies have shown that receiving proper care at home is as effective as, and sometimes better than, recovery in a dedicated facility. The care must follow the discharge plan, but at home the patient will benefit from
- Lowered exposure to infections and pathogens omnipresent in hospitals
- Lower risk of delirium, which is a significant risk for elderly hospital patients
- The physical comfort and security of their own home
- Increased sense of independence
- Ease of visits by friends and family
A study of more than 67,000 older adults discharged from hospitals after heart failure showed that those who received home care had lower rates of readmission to the hospital, compared to those who didn’t.