Selecting the Right Short-Term Rehab Facility
Today, it is rather common for seniors who have been hospitalized to transfer to a short-term rehabilitation facility prior to returning home. Whether it’s to rebuild endurance or increase range of motion after a hip or knee replacement, short-term rehab facilities offer a friendly environment to recuperate. They are also less expensive than a longer hospital
stay, are often covered by insurance, and decrease a senior’s risk for developing infection. Continuing therapy in a short-term rehab setting allows seniors to regain strength and endurance, while giving them the confidence to return home safely. What many seniors may not realize is that they have a choice regarding which short-term rehab facility they transfer to after discharging from the hospital. It’s important to schedule tours and meet with the social workers prior to agreeing to be discharged to a mystery short-term rehab facility. In fact, if you have a planned surgery, such as a knee or hip replacement, and your surgeon recommends rehab after discharge, you should know where you want to go prior to your surgery date. If you had an unplanned hospitalization, you could still have a family member tour and request where they think you’ll feel most comfortable. If you are in a situation where a short-term rehab stay may be in your future, here are a few tips to help you make the right selection.
What are the rooms like?
The first question you might want to ask is to see a short-term rehabilitation room. Ask to see a room similar to one that you may expect to be placed. Check to see if it’s a private room with its own bathroom and shower. Ask if you’re expected to share the room or bathroom. Although you will only be there for a short time, having a private room with your own bathroom may help you to feel more comfortable and relaxed, allowing you to recuperate more quickly.
Can you show me around?
Be sure to ask for a complete tour. Beyond seeing a room, ask to see other community spaces. See the therapy room and dining room. Look at the activity room or other community spaces. While you’re looking at the facility, pay attention to the current residents and patients. Their appearances can tell you a lot about the facility without asking a single question. Also pay attention to odors. You want to choose a facility that is clean all around. It’s also important to note that just because a building looks shiny and new, doesn’t mean that it’s necessarily the top choice. Look for a facility that cares for their patients and engages with residents while you’re on the grand tour.
What are your specialties?
You want to ask what the facility specializes in, so that you choose a facility that meets your needs. Not every short-term facility will have a specialty, but some may be experts in replacements, stroke recovery, cardiac therapy, and the like. Ask how they accommodate special diets and what sort of education they can provide for you.
What should I expect at meals?
Short-term rehab facilities will provide three meals a day. You may be required to eat in the dining room. If this excites you, then ask to see a menu so you can get an idea of what meals to expect. If you prefer solitude in your room, ask what the policies are regarding room trays. You can also inquire about family bringing meals to you, snacks you can keep in your room, if the facility provides a mini fridge or a place to keep cold foods cold, and what snacks are available to you during down time.
When can I go home and how does that process work?
Finally, you’ll want to discuss how the facility handles the discharge-to-home process. Ask how often you’re evaluated for discharge and what requirements you may need to meet to go home. Also make sure you feel comfortable with the social worker. They’ll be a key player in your discharge process, so you want someone who is kind, competent, and professional.
Beyond the hospital and short-term rehab facilities, know that Visiting Angels Richmond is here to help you continue to recuperate at home. Our compassionate caregivers can provide non-medical assistance to seniors who have had a recent hospitalization or short-term rehab stay. In fact, clients who receive our services are more likely to avoid a re-hospitalization because they have support provided by our caregivers. If you have a planned (or even unplanned) hospitalization on the horizon, be sure to contact us today. We can work with you now so that your caregiving support team is in place for your anticipated discharge home.