Your mom is ready to be discharged from the hospital, but what do you do when you, and your elderly parent, are not prepared for the changes that may happen when she returns home?
The news of an imminent discharge from the hospital can be met with mixed feelings; happiness, relief, worry, and anxiety about the future. Suppose you're f you will have some things to consider.
Suppose your parent is facing a progressive illness like dementia or Parkinson’s. In that case, their needs will differ from when they return home from the hospital after an illness or a traumatic incident such as a fall, heart attack, or stroke. In the latter case, maintaining a safe level of independence will be a top priority for everyone involved.
Preparation is key. While you may need more time to put new systems and lifestyle routines into place, you can take some simple steps to help you and your parent transition safely - with minimum stress for both of you.
The main concern you may now have regarding your parent’s discharge from the hospital or rehab is likely to be: Will Mom or Dad be able to live safely at home alone now?
3 Steps to Making Your Elderly Parent’s Homecoming a Safe Transition (and a Little Easier on You, Too)
- Set the tone for new responsibilities
Try to set some standards regarding who is taking responsibility and for what. If you're reading this article, chances are you will take the lead on caregiving for your parent when they return home, but this doesn't mean you have to be the sole or full-time caregiver. Call a family meeting with siblings, and devise a plan with clear responsibilities if you have them. Discuss all options at this meeting, including what finances are available to help should you need assistance, such as Home Care.
Have these conversations as early as possible to give everyone a chance to think clearly about what new responsibilities they can take on. Be realistic, consider other life commitments, and avoid piling guilt on top of already busy lives - especially if it's not likely sustainable. A short-term and long-term plan is acceptable as long as everyone is on the same page.
- Make some changes at home
Based on the information and advice the rehab team gives you about your mom or dad's future needs, visit your mom or dad's house before they return home to make some simple adjustments to help make life easier.
Remove rugs or low coffee tables that could be trip hazards; install a phone or emergency button near your parent's bedside and favorite chair, and push furniture out of the way to create clear walking routes. Suppose your parent's new mobility needs are more severe. In that case, you could move a bed downstairs or install handrails before they arrive home. Still, even for less restricted physicality, simple things like rearranging the kitchen essentials to be easy to use with one hand or without fuss can make life much easier.
- Look into getting Home Care assistance
Suppose you're concerned that your parent needs more support than you can physically or emotionally give. Some options can help them live independently at home while staying safe, comfortable, and not entirely alone. Customized Home Care can consist of a few hours of assistance with weekly chores, daily visits, or even full-time live-in care.
Introduce the idea to your mom or dad with sensitivity, as they may feel vulnerable after their time away from home, but be sure to present it as a favorable option. Home Care provides an extra pair of hands and family-like care that relieves pressure for you and your mom or dad. Plus, emphasizing the benefits to your parent will help them understand how this option will ensure they get the safe and compassionate care they need, as they need it - while helping them maintain independence for as long as possible.
If you and your family are ready to benefit from compassionate and expert help at home, don't hesitate to contact our team.
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