Bringing your loved one home from the hospital can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time.
There are some simple steps that can be taken to make the transition from staying at the hospital to coming home more pleasant.
Some important details to consider in order to make this adaptation happen with greater ease include reviewing insurance and tax benefits, researching community resources that may assist, discharge planning that includes taking the primary caregivers needs into account, ensuring proper transportation, and setting up the new living area appropriately.
Insurance and tax benefits
Some insurance plans may cover certain expenses that would otherwise be out-of-pocket.
In addition, review tax credits and deductible expenses that may also work to your benefit and in turn assist you in recovering costs.
Discharge plan
Work with the discharge planning team at the hospital closely.
These are the people that will be helping coordinate your loved one’s transition from the hospital to home.
This team will likely consist of a few individuals including doctors, therapists, and home health workers.
Make a list of questions you’d like clarified so you are clear about the plan in place, medications and future follow up appointments.
Primary caregiver’s needs
It is essential the primary caregiver be ready and able to take on the role; if that is not the case then homecoming may be a difficult adjustment.
Upon leaving the hospital, the primary caregiver will likely need to be delivering a greater level of care than what was required by loved ones at the hospital.
The majority of caregivers eventually adjust to the changes and develop personal strategies to overcome challenges.
Developing a comfortable routine that works for everyone is a key component that helps with a successful adjustment to coming home.
Living area
Ensure that the house is safe and secure before your loved one gets home.
Occupational therapists are available to do in-home safety assessments, if required.
He or she may be able to assist by making some suggestions, such as equipment required or a set-up that will allow your loved one to easily and safely enjoy daily living.
When there are other family members who are able to assist with the care giving, make a schedule of when and who will be taking on the care giving duties.
Accessing community resources is another way you can get further information and assistance. There are free and fee-for-service resources available that can help you carry out your duties with ease.
For more information about caregiving support groups in your area, or if you have any questions or concerns, contact Jas Cheema at 604-531-9400 or jcheema@comeshare.ca