1. Take Charge of Your Discharge
Early discharge planning for hospitalized seniors is very important for an uneventful recuperation. Research shows that problems identified by older patients after hospital discharge include not being told about:
The purpose and side effects of medications
Any restrictions on activities or work
Any dietary restrictions
What to do to help recovery
Danger signs of possible complications
Plan for follow up care
Seniors can help avoid these problems in two important ways, bring a list of questions to be asked before discharge, and bring a friend to listen along when the answers are given.
2. Ask Lots of Questions
Discharge planning for seniors is important to return to pre-hospitalization functioning. A baseline on some common medical monitors is helpful to establish so that you can compare how you are doing later. Some additional things to ask before leaving the hospital include:
Ask the nurse what your weight is on the day of discharge- write it down. Some medications you received in the hospital might have affected your fluid retention. You will want to know what your weight is so you can compare it to your weight after you are home for a few days.
Ask what blood pressure and pulse readings are normal for you. Write this information down and provide it to your caregiver if you are scheduled for home health care.
Ask if there have been any new allergies or drug reactions observed while you were in the hospital, so that you can record these for the future
Ask what medical supplies you will need (if any) and how soon you will need to replenish them once home
3. Get Prepared
Plan for what you will need afterwards. If you will need a wheelchair or other assistive devices, be sure to find out how to get them delivered so you are not waiting after you get home. Will you need a hospital bed? A shower chair?
Plan for what to do in an emergency. Before you go to the hospital, get to know the hospitals near your home with 24-hours emergency care. Keep all emergency numbers next to your home phone and carry a list with you. Be prepared to give your information to emergency personnel if asked.
4. Let Someone Be Your Social Director
Studies show that many seniors experience some mental effects after surgery, but most people recover after a few months. A slow down in mental functioning can sometimes be seen and is likely due to postoperative analgesics, prolonged time in bed without activity, fasting, sleep deprivation, and post operative pain. Some elders experience depression and anxiety symptoms after discharge. All of the possible reasons make it very hard to determine the cause and how to help.
Your family and friends can make a difference by offering emotional support and helping with your compliance to the discharge plan. Here are some suggestions for families and friends:
Listen to your friend or loved one with patience and compassion.
As soon as its medically allowed, invite your friend or loved one out. Depression is less likely when peopleâs bodies and minds remain active.
Schedule regular social activities with the family or a group of friends- be sure to make these events short and pay attention to signs of fatigue so events are not overwhelming.
5. Follow Discharge Instructions
Plan in advance so you can enjoy healthy meals (according to any post operative instructions) after discharge.
Follow through with all post operative instructions. If you find them too hard or confusing, call your doctor, maybe some adjustments can be made.
Make sure you take all medications as instructed. Ask about the use of alcohol while on medication. If you need help remembering when to take your medications- ask for help.
Seek immediate professional help if you suspect that you are experiencing any significant problems.
