How Transitional In-Home Care Helps Prevent Hospital Readmissions
In-home care provides the necessary support adults need to recover safely at home following surgery, illness, or other hospital stays
After a hospital stay, it is crucial that seniors - who need more time to restore their health than younger adults - follow a good recovery plan at home in order to regain their independence and prevent another hospital admission.
Hospital Readmission Rates
Hospital readmission is something that is quite common for aging patients. It is estimated that more than 20 percent of seniors over 65 return to a hospital within the first 4 weeks after being discharged.
Once back in the hospital, seniors are at a higher risk of staying there for longer and developing infections. Additionally, readmissions often put a tremendous financial strain on families.
The good news is that most hospital readmissions are entirely avoidable with a proper post-surgical home care plan in Denver, CO.
Risk Factors for Readmission
There are several factors that may significantly increase the likelihood of hospital readmission. A comprehensive review conducted in 2011 cross-examined 11 studies and identified the following common risks:
- Previous hospital admissions
- Prolonged hospital stay
- Little or no support from the family
- Diagnosis of a chronic disease or cognitive condition
- Negative side effects from prescription medications
- Mobility issues including being identified as a fall risk
How Transitional Care Can Help in Denver, CO
While hospitals do take steps to reduce readmissions, it is still up to the family and elderly patients to choose the manner in which they will resume recuperation at home. Failing to follow a doctor’s care plan is one of the most common reasons seniors end up back in the hospital.
To avoid this, start inquiring about discharge plans while your loved one is still in a hospital. This should give you enough time to plan and prepare everything. Transitional in-home care services can be a valuable option as you plan for your loved one’s post-surgical care.
Ready-Set-Go Home
Fully following a doctor’s discharge instructions can be challenging for seniors on their own. At Visiting Angels, we are dedicated to preventing hospital readmissions through our Ready-Set-Go Home program.
This unique program utilizes a customized approach to transitional care for each client. Our office staff will help create a care schedule so that your loved one has the support the need, starting as soon as when they are heading home from the hospital.
In-home care services that can be beneficial during the recovery process include:
- Help with grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, and meal preparation
- Medication reminders
- Assistance with showering, personal care, and getting to the toilet
- Transportation to follow-up appointments
Call our Visiting Angels office today to learn more about transitional care and other in-home care services available in Denver, CO.