Post Hospital Care for Seniors
Spending time in the hospital can be quite risky for some Santa Clarita seniors; however in many cases, it is completely unavoidable. In fact, according to data collected from millions of seniors on Medicare, almost one-fifth of these elderly individuals will be re-hospitalized within 30 days of being discharged. These “repeat customers” will usually return with health problems that are drastically different from the ones that put them in the hospital to begin with. For example, a person who was originally hospitalized for heart failure may have to be re-admitted the following month because of an acute infection, which is completely unrelated to the treatment they received for their cardiac issues. According to some experts, doctors are so focused on the issue that has brought the person to the hospital that they don’t even consider what may happen when they return home. However, more and more evidence is showing that what occurs after the discharge papers are signed is just as crucial as the care the person received while actually in the care of the hospital.
Causes of Post Hospital Issues in the Elderly
Seniors are typically much frailer and more wedded to their daily routines, which can make them much more susceptible to post-hospital syndrome. These are factors that can lead to the elderly developing a number of other health complications that will put them back into the hospital. When someone is receiving regular hospital care, they are exposed to a number of things that can negatively impact their health, which includes taking medications that impedes their physical and mental functioning, deconditioning, malnutrition, disruption of their daily schedule and sleep deprivation. As a result of all these stressors, all of the systems of the body can be affected, causing issues once the senior returns home.
Tips for Providing Quality Post-Hospital Care for Seniors
In order to provide quality post-hospital care, there are certain things that should, and should not, be done. Some tips for helping seniors after time in the hospital includes:Rebuild reserves: It is essential for seniors to get plenty of time to rest and healthy food. Rebuilding their reserves is essential. Understand the risk: It is important that caregivers understand that seniors who have just gotten out of the hospital may be at more risk of developing health complications.
Take time getting back to regular activities: Based on the cognitive abilities of the senior, it may take longer for them to get back to their regular routine. Taking time and small steps to this will pay off. Reinfuse the routine: Since hospitalization will cause disruption in a person’s routine it will take time for them to become acclimated to a daily routine again. Keep sick people away: Due to a weekend immune system, seniors should avoid contact with sick people after getting out of the hospital. Comfort Keepers in Santa Clarita has in-home care providers who can help seniors stay healthy even after spending time in the hospital. Call them today to learn more.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
