Overnight or extended hospital stays can significantly impact a senior’s physical and mental well-being. Prolonged hospitalization can increase the risk of infections, loss of muscle mass, and functional decline. Extended hospital stays may also foster confusion and feelings of isolation, which can be compounded for older adults with dementia.

Unfortunately, readmission to the hospital—shortly after discharge—remains an unfortunate consequence for many seniors. Effective discharge planning and ongoing support at home are essential to reducing the likelihood of hospital readmission.

As your aging loved one attempts to transition to their home from the hospital, you might need a helping hand to manage discharge instructions and keep up with regular senior care duties.

Visiting Angels can help!

Supportive In-Home Care After Hospitalization

Visiting Angels created a “Ready, Set, Go Home” transitional program to provide non-medical home care support after your senior leaves the hospital or a rehabilitation facility.

Our professional caregivers can help reduce your loved one’s risk of readmission due to preventable mishaps at home—and give you peace of mind during their recovery.

Visiting Angels designed the “Ready, Set, Go Home” program to help seniors get the best outcomes after hospitalization by providing essential, non-medical personal care services such as:

• Dressing
• Personal grooming
• Bathing
• Toileting
• Mobility and transfers
• Companionship to reduce senior isolation
• Errands
• Light housekeeping
• Meal Preparation
• Medication reminders

Our caregivers will keep a watchful eye on your aging loved one during recovery. Identifying issues early—particularly within the first two to seven days after hospitalization—will enable you to promptly follow up with your senior and their primary care provider—reducing the risk of a hospitalization or emergency room visit.

Contact us or call 800-365-4189 to request more information about our Ready, Set, Go Home program.

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FAQs About Hospital Readmission

What Causes Hospital Readmission?
Many seniors lose function after hospitalization, which impairs their independence and quality of life. They may feel overwhelmed and exhausted by daily tasks at home, especially if they have a chronic condition along with a serious health event or surgery.

Some seniors develop post-hospitalization syndrome, which can occur for several weeks after hospital discharge. Signs of post-hospitalization syndrome may include:

• Bowel or bladder concerns
• Disruptions to sleep patterns, diet, routines, and activity level
• Foggy thinking
• Increased disorientation
• Increased stress and anxiety
• Lingering fatigue
• Medication-related side effects
• Weakness

Seniors are vulnerable to infections, falls, or symptoms that can result in re-hospitalization or death. They may struggle to care for themselves, complete household tasks, manage their medications, attend medical appointments, or contact their medical team about symptoms.

How Does “Ready, Set, Go Home” Work?
Our “Ready, Set, Go Home” program prepares for your senior loved one’s successful transition home from a hospital or rehabilitation facility.

Our helpful program will also provide you with a checklist/guide where you can:

• Keep a comprehensive record of instructions
• Record vital information, such as where they need assistance and who can help coordinate care at home
• Reference information and notes from healthcare providers
• Store questions for follow-up visits

How Can Visiting Angels Help After Hospitalization?
Visiting Angels can visit your loved one in the hospital or rehab facility and create a plan before discharge. With input from you and the healthcare team, we can customize senior home care services to meet specific needs at home.

Contact a Visiting Angels home care office near you to learn more about the Ready, Set, Go Home program. Request a free home care consultation today.