From the Blog: How Can I Prepare for a Loved One to Come Home from a Skilled Nursing Facility?

Welcoming a loved one home after a stay in a skilled nursing facility can be a heartfelt and joyous occasion. It’s a time for reconnecting, reminiscing, and creating new memories as they settle back into familiar surroundings. However, it also may come with mixed emotions. With patience, understanding, and unwavering support, you can help your loved one feel truly welcomed and cherished in their return to the place they call home.

Important Steps to Take When Preparing for a Loved One’s Discharge

Ensure House Safety and Fall Prevention

A safe environment will provide peace of mind and minimize the risk of accidents or injuries when your loved one returns from a skilled nursing facility. Start by conducting a thorough assessment of your home, paying special attention to areas where your loved one will likely spend the majority of their time.

Remove potential hazards such as loose rugs or clutter that could cause tripping. Install handrails and grab bars in high-trafficked areas including bathrooms and staircases, and ensure you have adequate lighting in all hallways, entrances and rooms. Encouraging the use of assistive devices such as a cane or walker helps your loved one to navigate the home safely.

Consider Medical Care Requirements

Your loved one may still need regular medical attention after returning home, which could mean follow-up visits and transportation to and from appointments. It also might include assisting with medical needs such as wound care, to ensure their continued healing and to prevent complications.

Familiarize yourself with the specific care instructions provided by their healthcare professionals and ensure you have the necessary supplies on hand to continue care. Stay alert and observant of any signs of infection or change in condition and consult their doctor if any concerns arise.

Seek Out Medical Support

Once your loved one returns home, you may find that you can’t handle everything by yourself, and that’s perfectly okay! Using medical support services can contribute to their well-being and a smooth transition. When seeking help, you might consider home health or home care assistance. These professionals can provide essential assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, wound care and physical therapy exercises.

Another option is respite care, which offers temporary relief to primary caregivers, allowing them to rest, recharge or attend to other responsibilities while ensuring their loved one continues to receive quality care. Respite care can range from a few hours a day to extended periods, providing flexibility and support based on your unique circumstances.

By incorporating medical support services, like home health, home care and respite care, you can ensure your loved one’s needs are met, provide a safe environment, and ease the caregiving responsibilities for everyone involved.

Coming Home Happy and Healthy

Returning home marks an exciting and important step in your loved one’s journey.  By taking these necessary preparation steps, you can help ensure a smooth transition. Remember that your love, care and support will play a crucial role in their recovery journey. Welcome them back with open arms and embrace this opportunity to help them regain their health and well-being in the comfort of their own home and in the presence of family.

If you have questions about the discharge process at a specific CommuniCare facility, please reach out directly. You can find the contact information for each center at communicarehealth.com/locations.