Three in five of us will be carers at some point in our lives* , and the vast majority
of us will most likely be faced with helping someone we care for transition from hospital to
home. We map out three steps to help make this move as smooth as can be.
Benjamin Franklin once famously stated: "In this world nothing can be said to be certain,
except death and taxes." This adage neglects another inevitability: at some point almost all
of us will have to care for, in some shape or form, a partner, friend or family member who
has been discharged from hospital. Here are three tips to help make the switch from ward
to home seamless.
1. Have a solid plan in place
If you are helping a loved one move back home from hospital, having a strategy in place will
make all the difference. Spend as much time as you can with doctors and consultants in the
days before the transition, and absorb as much as possible about the care that’ll be required
including, of course, thorough details on medication.
Remember that ahead of discharge, a written plan will be created clearly stating the needs
of the patient and how they should be cared for. Request a copy, and get to know it inside
out. Then use this to inform your daily schedule. Routine will be your friend, especially in
the early stages.
2. Be patient with your patient, and yourself
The first few days back at home will almost certainly be the hardest. Lean on friends and
other relatives and ensure that in the days ahead of the move, you stock up the fridge and
freezer – the last thing that you’ll want to be doing is making a mad dash for the
supermarket. Instead, any downtime should be reserved for recharging your batteries.
Keep in mind that your loved one will be perhaps feel a lack of control, which could in turn
impact their emotional wellbeing. Know that you’ll have to be at your most resilient in these
first few days, and never take the frustrations or anger of the person you’re caring for
personally. Keep reminding yourself that it will get easier as time goes on.
3. Know when to ask for help
It goes without saying that we all want the very best care for our loved ones, but work
pressures and time constraints mean that it’s not always possible for us to take a hands-on
approach when someone takes a turn for the worst, especially when the ask goes beyond
recuperation and is more long-term and strenuous.
If you’re struggling to find the time or even emotional energy to offer the right level of care
to your family member or friend, don’t be ashamed to seek out professional assistance.
There’s a plethora of at home care options available – ranging from companionship services
to live-in care – which can make the precious time you spend with them more rewarding,
enjoyable and meaningful.
Irrespective of age or injury, we believe remaining in the comfort of your own home
should be a positive experience. To learn more about H1 Care at Home, visit
*https://carers.org/key-facts-about-carers-and-people-they-care
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